Date:25/05/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/05/25/stories/2006052518960300.htm

Tamil Nadu - Chennai

20 huts gutted in slum fire

Staff Reporter

Blaze in Foreshore Estate doused in 1 hour

REMAINS OF A BLAZE: A young boy joins in the search to retrieve anything valuable after the fire in Doomingkuppam on Wednesday. — Photo: K. Pichumani

CHENNAI: Nearly 20 huts in a slum in Doomingkuppam near Foreshore Estate gutted on Wednesday afternoon.

According to police, a fire was noticed in one of the huts in Bhavanikuppam, a part of Doomingkuppam, at around 1.15 p.m. and it soon spread to other dwellings. Five fire-tenders along with seven water lorries rushed to the spot. The fire was extinguished within an hour, though residents said they lost most of their belongings by then.

"We were about to eat our lunch when we noticed a hut at one end burning," said Felix, whose house stood in the middle of the area. Felix and his wife Mary said they just had time to rush out of the house, dragging their children to safety. Meanwhile, the fire had spread to bring down all the huts in the area.

"We have lost everything. Bureau, stove, certificates... even the gas cylinders burst," said Sahayamary, who was trying to retrieve something out of the remains.

Two hours after the fire was extinguished, the police and revenue department officials had a tough time trying to cool frayed tempers.

Confusion prevailed over identifying the families affected that could claim relief.

Officials said they suspected no foul play and it was a case of "kitchen fire." They have registered a case and are investigating.

Nearly 25 families were later provided accommodation at a nearby Corporation school.