Shimla Fire Tragedy: One Body and 20 Human Remains Recovered in Arki Market Blaze
A devastating fire struck Arki market in Solan district early on January 12. The blaze engulfed a four-storey wooden building owned by Rajeev Gupta. Firefighters and rescue teams worked tirelessly for four days to comb through the wreckage.
Joint Search Operation Yields Grim Findings
A joint search operation involving the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and home guards concluded on Thursday. The team recovered one dead body and 20 human remains from the site. These remains belong to migrant labourers from Nepal who were living in the building.
On the final day of operations, rescuers retrieved 10 more remains. All recovered remains have been sent to a forensic science laboratory for DNA analysis. Authorities are still waiting for the reports to confirm identities.
Building Layout and Evacuation Efforts
The wooden building had a commercial setup on its ground and first floors. The top two floors housed nine families of migrant labourers from Bihar and Nepal. When the fire broke out at night, seven families managed to escape safely. Rescue teams evacuated them promptly.
A magisterial probe is now underway to determine the exact cause of the fire. Investigators are examining all possible factors that led to this tragic incident.
Immediate Relief Measures for Victims
Local authorities have provided immediate relief to those affected by the fire. The Arki sub-divisional magistrate (civil) disbursed financial aid of Rs 25,000 to each affected individual. Owners of 12 shops damaged in the blaze received Rs 10,000 each.
The Solan Red Cross stepped in to assist six families. They provided essential items like tarpaulins, blankets, utensils, water buckets, and warm clothing. These efforts aim to help the victims cope with the aftermath of the disaster.
The community in Solan district is mourning the loss. Officials continue to support the affected families as the investigation progresses.
