Fire Erupts at Residential School Hostel in Koraput
A serious fire incident occurred at the boys' hostel of Umuri Ashram School on Tuesday. This residential institute serves students from Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities. It is located in the Jeypore block of Koraput district.
Blaze Causes Extensive Property Damage
The fire resulted in significant damage to property within the hostel. Officials confirmed that no injuries or casualties were reported. The blaze is currently suspected to have been caused by a short-circuit in the electrical system.
District welfare officer S K Tandi provided details about the incident. "Around 10:30 in the morning, smoke was first noticed coming from a room on the first floor," Tandi stated. "Staff members heard a loud sound. They immediately saw thick smoke pouring out through windows and ventilators."
The staff reacted quickly by rushing into the hostel building. Inside one of the rooms, they discovered several items already engulfed in flames.
- Plywood fittings and items
- Blankets and bedding materials
- Books and study materials
- Mattresses
- Electrical wiring
Firefighters Respond Promptly
Authorities immediately informed the Jeypore fire station about the emergency. Fire personnel rushed to the spot without delay. They worked efficiently to douse the flames and prevent further spread.
Fortunately, the hostel boarders were not present inside the building at the time of the fire. This fact likely prevented any potential injuries or loss of life.
Assessment and Investigation Underway
The fire caused considerable destruction despite the quick response. Officials confirmed that plywood fittings, bedding, books, mattresses and electrical wiring were all destroyed in the blaze.
An official assessment of losses is currently underway. Authorities are working to determine the exact monetary value of the damaged property.
Meanwhile, further investigation is being conducted to ascertain the precise cause of the fire. While a short-circuit remains the primary suspicion, officials are examining all possibilities to confirm the origin of the blaze.
The incident has raised concerns about fire safety measures in residential educational institutions. Particularly those serving marginalized communities in remote areas.
