Massive Fire in Manja Destroys 9 Shops, House and Lodge; Locals Protest Delay in Fire Brigade Response

Repeated Delays Spark Public Anger; Demand for Fire Station in Manja Grows Stronger

Manja, Karbi Anglong: A devastating fire broke out in Manja town, reducing nearly nine shops, a residential house, and a lodge to ashes, triggering panic and chaos in the area. The incident has once again exposed the lack of timely emergency response, with locals expressing strong anger over the delayed arrival of fire brigade services.

According to eyewitnesses, the fire spread rapidly, engulfing nearby structures within minutes. Shopkeepers and residents tried desperately to control the flames, but the intensity of the fire made it nearly impossible to contain without professional assistance.

Fire Brigade Delay Fuels Public Outrage

Residents alleged that the fire brigade reached the spot very late, by which time most of the damage had already been done. Despite three fire tenders eventually arriving, locals claim the delay significantly worsened the destruction.

“This is not the first time. Every time there is a fire, the fire brigade arrives late. How long will we suffer like this?” said an angry local resident.

Long-Standing Demand Ignored by Authorities

The incident has reignited a long-standing demand among the people of Manja for a dedicated fire brigade station within the Manja Police Station area. Locals say repeated appeals to government officials have gone unheard.

“We have been demanding a fire station in Manja for years, but no government official has taken this seriously. Today again, people have lost everything,” another resident said.

Massive Loss, No Casualties Reported Yet

While no casualties have been reported so far, the financial loss is believed to be massive. Many small business owners have lost their only source of livelihood in the blaze.

Call for Immediate Government Action

The incident has raised serious concerns about disaster preparedness in semi-urban areas like Manja. Residents are now urging the government to take immediate action to prevent such tragedies in the future by establishing a local fire brigade unit.

As investigations into the cause of the fire continue, the focus remains on accountability and the urgent need for improved emergency response infrastructure.