A day after a devastating blaze tore through Dhamangaon village in Bhiwapur tehsil, gutting homes and livelihoods, the district administration has swung into full-scale relief and rehabilitation mode, racing against time to restore order.
Collector Visits Affected Area
Collector Kumar Ashirwad visited the fire-ravaged village on Sunday and laid out a time-bound recovery plan. In the immediate aftermath, nearly 150 to 200 residents were moved to temporary shelters, including schools and community halls. Officials noted that many are now staying with relatives or neighbours, making the number of displaced people fluid.
Extent of Damage
The fire left over 50 houses completely gutted and around 30 partially damaged, directly impacting over 150 people. While no human casualties were reported, several goats, poultry, and bovines were killed or injured, adding to the losses suffered by residents, Ashirwad told TOI.
Relief Distribution Underway
Relief distribution is underway, with around 80 kits already dispatched. Each contains essential supplies, including 10 kg wheat, oil, turmeric, spices, and salt, sufficient for about 15 days. Priority is being given to families whose homes have been completely destroyed. Over 25 utensil kits are also being provided to restore basic cooking arrangements.
Damage Assessment and Compensation
Damage assessment through panchanama is nearing completion, with 70 percent of the work done. A re-panchanama has been ordered to ensure no affected household is left out of the compensation net. Financial aid, as per state norms, will be credited directly to beneficiaries once the process is finalised within 24 to 48 hours.
Livestock and Long-Term Rehabilitation
Addressing concerns over livestock, the administration has arranged a truckload of cattle fodder, expected to reach by Monday. For long-term rehabilitation, authorities are considering housing support under the Shabari Gharkul Yojana and Ramai Gharkul Yojana. A meeting with concerned departments will be held soon to finalise the framework.
Ongoing Measures
A revenue team will remain stationed in the village, while a cleanliness drive is planned within the next few days once immediate relief stabilises. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Officials have cautioned against speculation around stubble burning or electrical faults. An official confirmation will be issued only after a thorough probe, Ashirwad said.
Chief Minister's Statement
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said, "By God's grace, there have been no human casualties in the Bhiwapur fire incident. Preliminary assessment indicates a short circuit as the trigger, after which the situation escalated rapidly due to heavy winds. The administration responded immediately, evacuating people and ensuring shelter arrangements, while also managing the situation through the night. Some livestock losses have occurred. The administration did commendable work on the ground, with the Guardian Minister personally monitoring the situation and visiting the site."
With relief efforts intensifying, the administration's immediate challenge is to ensure swift compensation and rebuild livelihoods in the fire-ravaged village.
