Devastating Fire Ravages Chandina Homes Overnight

In a tragic incident that has left the community of Chandina in shock, a fierce overnight blaze engulfed multiple homes in the Jamirapara village of Mohichail Union, Comilla, on Monday, 16 February. The fire broke out around 11:30 pm, rapidly consuming structures and leaving six families homeless. Residents described the scene as harrowing, with screams and cries echoing across the area as flames leapt from house to house.

According to eyewitnesses, the inferno began in a single dwelling before quickly spreading to neighbouring properties. Early reports suggest that an electrical short circuit may have triggered the blaze, although investigations are ongoing. Despite the valiant efforts of locals, who attempted to douse the flames with water and sand, the fire’s intensity proved overwhelming.

Chandina Fire Service responded promptly, dispatching units to the scene and managing to bring the fire under control. However, by the time assistance arrived, nine houses – six residential homes and three kitchens – had been entirely reduced to ashes. Among those affected is Akibul Islam Harish, the Chandina correspondent for the daily Kalbela, who described the loss of personal belongings and vital documents as “heartbreaking.” He recounted, “I was asleep when I heard screams. Stepping outside, I saw my home consumed by fire. There was nothing I could save. Everything turned to ashes before my eyes.”

Other residents reported that years of accumulated savings, treasured household items, and even gold jewellery were destroyed in mere minutes. Many families are now left to survive under the open sky, struggling to come to terms with their sudden loss.

Chandina Fire Service Station Officer Imam Patowari stated, “Preliminary indications suggest a short circuit caused the fire. A detailed investigation is underway to confirm the cause and assess the extent of the damage.”

The local administration, led by Chandina Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Mohammad Ashraful Haque, has prepared a list of affected families and announced that immediate relief support will be provided. Emergency aid, including food, temporary shelter, and essential household supplies, is being organised to assist those left destitute by the disaster.

A summary of the property damage is as follows:

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of fire and the importance of preventive measures. Authorities have urged residents to check electrical wiring regularly and remain vigilant to avoid similar tragedies in the future.

With six families displaced and nine homes destroyed, the Chandina community faces a long road to recovery. Local officials and emergency services continue to coordinate relief efforts, hoping to provide immediate assistance while supporting long-term rehabilitation.

Total Families Affected: 6
Total Homes Destroyed: 9
Immediate Relief Provided: Emergency shelter, food, and essential supplies

The night of 16 February will long remain etched in the memories of Jamirapara residents, highlighting how swiftly disaster can strike and the vulnerability of communities to unforeseen calamities.