Global Program task force members responded to the fire that took place at Khairatali Nahar in Sanpatha Nagar Parishad, Patna District, Bihar.

The fire victims, along with the members of the task force of Yuganter, a Global Programme partner in Bihar and their neighbors, showed incredible bravery and worked together to extinguish the flames.

According to Lilavati Devi, one of the victims shared that the fire started around 8 AM on April 4, 2023, turning their lives upside down. She recounted the horrifying incident, mentioning that she lost everything in the blaze, including INR 5 lakh in cash, jewelry, a bike, clothes, utensils, and other precious belongings.

Jyoti Kumari’s house also caught fire; she is one of the members of the task force. She immediately informed other task force members for assistance as the fire intensified. The team swiftly arrived at the scene, called the police and fire brigade, and managed to control the fire before the firefighters arrived at 8:30 AM.

Smriti Kumari, another task force member finds the fire spreading to adjacent houses and used water pipes along with the task force to contain the fire, but the situation grew increasingly dangerous. Nishu Kumari expressed, if the firefighters had responded promptly, the damage could have been minimized. Despite their valiant efforts, the losses were substantial. The exact cause of the fire remained unknown, requiring a thorough investigation.

These members of the task force were trained by the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority (BSDMA) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). The training equipped them with essential skills in firefighting, preparing stretchers for emergencies, and other crucial response techniques. A total of 90 task force members, including eight from Khairatali Nahar, received certification from the government after completing the training.

As victims and their families struggle to cope with the aftermath of this devastating incident, they hope for a swift resolution and much-needed financial assistance. The collective efforts of the community, local authorities and organizations like Yuganter, play a vital role in providing support and aid to the victims. The affected people have lodged a First Information Report (FIR) with the local Police Station and applied for compensation through the Circle Office, Sampatchak Circle. However, at present, the victims are still awaiting the release of compensation.

Team Yuganter has taken a personal effort to support the affected families. They have been in contact with Shri Amit Kumar, the Honorable Chairman of Sampatchak Nagar Parishad for expediting the release of compensation for the victims. As a solidarity gesture, Yuganter recently distributed essential nonfood items like buckets, blankets, mosquito nets, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and slippers to the victims. This distribution took place in the presence of Shri Satish Kumar, the Honorable Councillor of Ward 11, Sampatchak Nagar Parishad. Taking it upon themselves

The task force members are closely following up with the Municipal Authority for compensation and government support.