Shimla, Jan 13 (UNI) A massive fire has engulfed Tandi village in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, leaving widespread destruction in its wake, officials said on Monday.
The inferno, which broke out on Sunday night, destroyed 25 houses and rendered over 40 families homeless. Livestock, essential household items, and stored grains were also lost, compounding the tragedy for the villagers.
The fire spread rapidly due to strong winds and the close proximity of wooden houses, making it nearly impossible for the residents to contain the blaze on their own. The lack of firefighting infrastructure in the area delayed the response, worsening the impact.
While no loss of human lives was reported, several villagers sustained minor injuries while trying to salvage their belongings. The affected families are now residing in temporary shelters provided by the local administration, with food, water, and basic supplies being arranged as part of the immediate relief.
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu visited the fire-affected Tandi village to personally assess the damage and meet with the affected families. Witnessing the destruction firsthand, he expressed deep sorrow over the loss suffered by the residents and assured them of comprehensive government support to rebuild their lives.
Chief Minister announced financial support of Rs. 7 lakh for families whose houses were completely destroyed. Rs. 5,000 per month for six months for families living in rented accommodations, extendable for another six months if reconstruction is delayed and Rs. 50,000 for constructing cattle sheds.
He said that Free electricity and water connections for rebuilt homes.Provision of timber as per norms for house reconstruction. Rs. 75 lakh for constructing a metal road within the village and Rs. 1 crore for repairing the 4-kilometer road leading to Tandi.
He announced to establish fire station in Banjar to address future fire emergencies and a Plans to explore the possibility of a solar power project to tackle the region’s low-voltage electricity problem.
The Chief Minister directed local officials to expedite the rehabilitation and reconstruction work and ensure that all essential services are restored at the earliest. He also instructed them to remain vigilant and prepare a disaster management plan to prevent such incidents in the future.
The local MLA Bhuvneshwar Gaur and local administrative officials, who pledged their commitment to restoring normalcy in Tandi.
The Chief Minister’s prompt response and proactive measures have provided much-needed relief and hope to the fire-hit families.
