Over 1300 huts gutted in fire in refugee camp; Sitaula promises assistance

Over 1300 huts were gutted when fire broke out in Goldhap refugee camp in Jhapa district.

The fire had suddenly started from a house at around 6:30 pm in the evening, Saturday, and later engulfed the entire camp.

Initial reports say only three persons have been injured in the fire, which has affected the settlement of over 10,000 Bhutanese refugees.

Fire brigades from the district were busy trying to put it out till late at night. Hundreds of security personnel were mobilised to rescue the people.

After their huts were gutted, thousands of refugees have been compelled to stay in nearby fields.

Meanwhile, Home Minister Krishna Sitaula inspected the affected camp on Sunday morning.

He informed that the government will make available Rs 3 million as assistance immediately. He also said that the government will appeal to domestic and international organisations for help. nepalnews.com sd Mar 02 08