Major Fire in Shillong: Army–Fire Services Joint Operation Douses Blaze; Community Rallies to Help Victims
A coordinated operation between the Army and Fire Services succeeded in dousing the fire within a few hours, preventing it from spreading further.
Shillong | A massive fire broke out on Friday around 3:30 pm at the Goenka Compound, located behind Anjali Cinema Hall in the Cantonment area of Shillong, reducing nearly 70 to 80 makeshift houses to ashes and leaving dozens of families homeless.
According to eyewitnesses, the blaze spread rapidly due to closely packed structures and strong flames, posing a major challenge for the Fire and Emergency Services in the initial stages.
The situation was brought under control after personnel from the 101 Area of the Indian Army swiftly stepped in. A coordinated operation between the Army and Fire Services succeeded in dousing the fire within a few hours, preventing it from spreading further.
The district administration said that relief and rescue operations are underway and arrangements are being made to provide temporary shelter and essential assistance to the affected families. The cause of the fire is being investigated from all angles.
Meanwhile, in a remarkable display of unity and compassion, people from all communities came forward to help the victims without any discrimination. A message seeking help for the affected families was shared in the Marwari Samaj’s WhatsApp group in Shillong, which immediately drew an overwhelming response.
Members of the Marwari community contacted Sanjeev Sharma of Hind Jalpan at the site and arranged for blankets, tarpaulins, sweaters, and food supplies. The team led by Arvind Yadav from the Bihari community also extended full support to the victims.
Many affected families were seen searching through the ashes for any belongings they could salvage, but found only despair. While no one can replace what was lost in the fire, community members refused to step back from helping in every possible way.
Social worker Pawan Sharma from Sanbor Sullai encouraged the victims and assured them that they were not alone in this difficult time. After watching videos of the tragedy, several women also stepped forward to contribute to the relief efforts.
Sanjeev Sharma said that with the support of all community members, arrangements will be made on Sunday to provide cooked food to the affected families at the site itself. People willing to donate ration and other essentials have also been invited to come forward.
Sushil Dadhich thanked all communities, especially the Marwari Samaj of Shillong, and said that families who understand others’ pain and never hesitate to help are truly fortunate.
Senior district and administrative officials were present at the site and stated that the incident will be investigated thoroughly from every angle. Community elders and social activists have expressed gratitude to all those who came forward to support the fire victims.
