A family of seven is in need of help after their home was devastated by a fire last Friday in Belego Settlement, Savusavu.
Naren Chand, the 59-year-old homeowner, shared that his daughters, son-in-law, and grandchildren were at home when the incident occurred. “I was away in Dreketi managing our business when I got the unfortunate news around 7:30 PM,” Mr. Chand recounted.
While the cause of the fire is still unknown, Mr. Chand mentioned that his children believe an electrical wiring fault in the ceiling might have sparked the blaze. “The fire then spread through the walls,” he added.
Recently, his daughter had constructed a flat nearby for her and her husband along with their two children. Mr. Chand reflected on the effort it took to build their home, storeroom, and car park area over the last 20 years. “My wife and I worked very hard to provide everything for our home. We started from scratch,” he said.
He is calling for assistance to rebuild their house and support for his grandchildren’s education, as they have lost everything. His grandchildren currently attend Savusavu Secondary School and Khemendra Central School.
Mr. Chand estimated the damage at approximately $400,000. Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed that investigations are underway, and there were no casualties reported.
This incident marks the second house fire recorded in the Northern Division this month, following a fire in Qelewaqa, Labasa, on September 14.