SHILLONG, Jan 16: A devastating fire broke out Friday evening at Goenka Compound near Sohra Stand, close to Anjalee Cinema Hall, destroying several makeshift houses and leaving approximately 200 families homeless. There was no immediate report of any injury or loss of life.
East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem said authorities received the first report around 4:30 pm, prompting an immediate alert to the Fire and Emergency Services.
“Fire tenders were rushed to the spot as soon as we were informed,” Syiem stated.
Initial deployment included two to three tenders, but as the blaze intensified, reinforcements arrived from the Army, BSF, and Indian Air Force.
The SP confirmed that nearly 200 households were affected. The district administration has arranged temporary shelter for the displaced families at three locations.
Firefighting and relief operations continued late into the evening, with personnel from the Fire and Emergency Services, Civil Defence, and Home Guards working to prevent further spread.
On the cause, Syiem noted: “There was load shedding in the area throughout the day, with electricity restored around 4 pm. A short circuit is a possibility, but the exact cause is still under investigation.”
Cabinet Minister and local MLA Sanbor Shullai visited the site soon after the incident, met affected families, assessed the situation, and assured them of full support from the authorities.
In a show of community solidarity, the Gurudwara Guru Nanak Darbar (GGND) stepped forward to provide humanitarian aid. GGND president Gurjit Singh said arrangements have been made to shelter displaced families in a hall on the premises.
“We have begun serving food to everyone who has come to us. They can stay here as long as needed until alternative arrangements are made,” Singh said.
The Gurudwara is providing breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and will continue assistance on humanitarian grounds.
