Nongkenbah, Oct 31: A devastating fire completely gutted a house at Nongkenbah village in South West Khasi Hills District late on the night of October 26, leaving the owner with losses estimated at several lakhs of rupees.

The house, belonging to Mrs. Saralin Kharmawlein, was entirely destroyed in the blaze. At the time of the incident, Mrs. Kharmawlein was in Shillong for medical treatment, and learned of the tragedy only after relatives and villagers informed her of the fire.

Despite immediate efforts by neighbours and community members to extinguish the flames and salvage belongings, the fire spread rapidly, making rescue attempts impossible. The structure and all household items were completely reduced to ashes.

Mrs. Kharmawlein has estimated the total loss at approximately ₹15 lakh. Villagers have urged government authorities to extend timely assistance to the affected family, who have lost all their possessions in the incident.