A double-storey building in Naidovi, Cuvu, Nadroga, was completely destroyed by fire early yesterday morning, outside the designated Sigatoka Fire Boundary. Puamau Sowani, the chief executive officer of the National Fire Authority, confirmed the incident.
The Sigatoka Fire Station received an emergency call around 2:30 AM. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered that the building was engulfed in flames. They quickly took action to halt the fire’s spread and successfully managed to control it. The fire brigade continued to extinguish hotspots, ensuring that the situation was fully contained with assistance from the Korolevu team.
The building, owned by 69-year-old Hari Shankar, served as both a shopping complex and a residence. Shankar and his wife were alerted by their son-in-law, Rohit Chand, 42, who awakened them just in time. The ground floor featured four small shops, including a kava shop, while the top floor housed a nightclub and the owner’s apartment.
The fire resulted in total devastation of the upper floor, with damages estimated at around $750,000. Mr. Sowani mentioned that an investigation will be carried out to determine the likely cause of the fire. He also took the opportunity to remind the public about the importance of fire safety measures in their homes.
This unfortunate event serves as a critical reminder of the importance of fire safety and vigilance for both businesses and homeowners. By taking proactive measures, residents can help protect their properties from potential fire hazards.
Summary: A fire destroyed a double-storey building in Naidovi, causing an estimated $750,000 in damages. The incident occurred early in the morning, with quick response from local fire teams preventing wider damage. An investigation is set to determine the cause of the fire, while public awareness on fire safety remains a priority.
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