A devastating fire broke out at Singtila under Damdama Gram Panchayat in Sabroom subdivision of South Tripura on Friday, causing extensive damage to a residential property and vehicles. The incident has sparked outrage among local residents and the affected family, who have alleged serious lapses in the response of the fire and emergency services.

According to reports, the fire originated in one of the rooms of the house belonging to Debasish Majumdar during the morning hours. After noticing smoke and flames, Majumdar immediately informed the Sabroom Fire Service. However, family members alleged that firefighters failed to reach the spot promptly despite the fire station being located less than 500 metres away from the residence.

Local residents claimed that the situation could have been brought under control much earlier had the fire brigade responded swiftly. They further alleged that technical problems with firefighting equipment worsened the situation. According to eyewitnesses, a water hose used by firefighters reportedly burst after they arrived at the scene, and the water supply in the fire engine was exhausted shortly thereafter.

As the blaze intensified, an additional fire engine was brought in from Manubazar. After nearly two hours of firefighting efforts, the flames were finally brought under control. By then, however, most of the house had been reduced to ashes.

Preliminary information suggests that a large quantity of rubber sheets was stored in the room where the fire is believed to have started. The flames quickly spread throughout the house, completely destroying a four-wheeler and a motorcycle parked in front of the residence.

The incident triggered panic in the densely populated area, with residents rushing to move valuables from their homes amid fears that the fire could spread to neighbouring houses.

The exact cause of the fire is yet to be determined. Fire Service officials and the administration have launched an investigation into the incident. Meanwhile, allegations of delayed response and faulty equipment have led to widespread anger among local residents, who are demanding accountability and a thorough inquiry into the matter.