Fire Destroys Four Homes in Kangpokpi

Imphal: A massive fire ripped through Ward No. 8 of Kangpokpi on the evening of August 8. The blaze started around 7.45 pm, gutting four homes and destroying property worth Rs 1,34,94,500. Everything is gone. The ruins include the primary residence of 75-year-old carpenter Thangjangam Haokip and three adjoining rental units.

The tenants, Nengneichong Touthang, 25, Lhingneilhai Haokip, 30, and Jenneth Haokip, 23, lost everything. Financial damage for the primary residence hit Rs 1,18,19,000. Losses for the tenants totaled Rs 8,92,000, Rs 5,69,500, and Rs 2,14,000 respectively. Vital land documents and personal records perished in the flames.

Haokip's children, 13-year-old Nehminlal Haokip and 12-year-old Lamhoineng Haokip, were home alone when the fire ignited. Their parents were visiting relatives in Ward No. 7 at the time. Alert neighbors and local youths rushed to the scene to pull the children to safety. They saved two lives.

Police inspectors suspect an electrical short circuit caused the disaster. Officials have not ruled out further investigation by technical authorities. Haokip stated that he does not suspect foul play. He reported that he "did not suspect foul play and believed the fire was likely caused by an electrical short circuit." Investigators found no evidence of arson at the site.