A day meant for celebration turned into tragedy after a fire ripped through a home at Duilomaloma Rd near Waila in Nausori yesterday morning, leaving five families homeless and injuring one man.
Homeowner Subash Chand said the fire broke out while preparations were underway for a wedding in the neighbourhood.
“I was with the neighbours to help them with cooking of food, because there is a wedding to be held here today,” he said.
“My wife, my son, daughter-in-law and their kids were inside the house.”
Mr Chand said the fire began at about 8.45am.
“The fire began around 8.45am, my grandson saw the fire come from the tenant’s side of the house, he started to wake up his papa.
“By the time my son woke up, the fire had already reached our house.”
He said his family managed to escape, but his son was briefly trapped.
“My wife, daughter-in-law and grandkids managed to get out early, my son was stuck inside and two of our neighbours ran in to help him.
“My son, Sudesh Chand, had some burns to his face, but he will be okay, he’s been taken to the hospital.”
Mr Chand claimed firefighters arrived 45 minutes after being called.
He is now appealing for help.
“I’m requesting the Government and anyone willing to assist, please help us in getting a new house and as well as my tenants as we now don’t have a home.
“We are just happy no one died and that it happened during the day – one of the tenants has a small baby and I’m glad everyone got out in time.”
Mr Chand can be contacted on 8789204.
