Fire in Wakhema Township destroys 11 shops, kills 87-year-old man

A fire broke out in Wakhema Township, Ayeyawady Region, resulting in the destruction of 11 shops and one residential house, with the death of an 87-year-old man. 

The incident occurred on October 21 in the evening, near the central market on Merchant Street, Yaykyaw Ward, in Wakhema Town.

“The fire started in one of the shops, which was also used as a residence. In total, 11 shops and one house were destroyed, and one person died. The deceased was 87 years old and perished due to the fire, as he was trapped inside. The fire was caused by a candle that spread to other flammable items, including household goods, children’s toys, tissue paper, and diapers, which caused the fire to spread rapidly,” said U Toe Naing Oo, the head of the Wakhema Township Fire Services Department.

Efforts to extinguish the fire took some time, and neighboring townships’ fire stations also assisted. 

“Since the shops were close together, the fire spread quickly. We immediately informed the district and regional authorities. Nearby township and area fire stations responded quickly with fire engines. We tackled the blaze from four directions to contain it and prevent further spreading,” the fire department head explained.

Firefighting efforts involved two fire engines, one water tanker, and one fire truck from Wakhema Township Fire Station; two water tankers from the Wakhema Reserve Fire Station; one fire engine and one water tanker from Kyonmange Area Fire Station; one fire engine from Einme Township; one water tanker from Ywathit Area Fire Station; and two water tankers from Shwelaung Area Fire Station, with additional support from volunteer and reserve fire brigades.