A family of seven is in need of assistance following the destruction of their home in a fire last Friday at Belego Settlement in Savusavu. Naren Chand, 59, the homeowner, reported that at the time of the fire, his daughters, son-in-law, and grandchildren were inside the house.
“I was away in Dreketi managing our business when I received the distressing news around 7:30 PM,” Mr. Chand stated. Although the cause of the fire is still unknown, his children believe it may have stemmed from an electrical wiring fault in the ceiling that eventually ignited.
He recounted that the flames rapidly spread through the walls. Recently, his daughter had constructed a flat nearby for her family to live closer to them.
Mr. Chand mentioned that it took him over 20 years to build their home, including a storeroom and car park. “My wife and I worked very hard to purchase everything for our home. We started from nothing,” he expressed.
He emphasized the urgent need for support to rebuild their house, stating that his grandchildren also require assistance to continue their education, as they have lost everything in the fire. The children attend Savusavu Secondary School and Khemendra Central School.
Mr. Chand estimated the damage caused by the fire to be around $400,000. Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed that investigations are underway, and fortunately, there were no casualties reported.
This incident marks the second house fire in the Northern Division this month, following a previous fire at Qelewaqa, Labasa on September 14.