KATHMANDU: A staggering 1,116 fire incidents have been reported across various districts in Nepal over the past five months, claiming 16 lives and causing widespread destruction, according to the Nepal Police.
Nepal Police Spokesperson, SSP Bishwaraj Adhikari, said 145 individuals sustained injuries during these incidents. The fires also damaged 190 houses, 130 cowsheds, one government office, and killed 455 livestock. The total estimated damage is approximately Rs 500 million, displacing 29 families.
The Koshi Province recorded the highest number of fire incidents, with 331 cases. Other provinces saw 269 incidents in Madhesh, 70 in Bagmati, 140 in Kathmandu Valley, 81 in Gandaki, 114 in Lumbini, 51 in Karnali, and 60 in Sudurpaschim.
Efforts to contain the fires involved mobilizing more than 8,000 police personnel.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) highlighted the severity of the situation, reporting 19 fires across the country on Monday alone, leaving two people injured.
NDRRMA Spokesperson Dr Dijan Bhattarai urged the public to exercise extreme caution when handling fire, electricity, and gas equipment.
“Electrical short circuits, gas leaks, and negligence while lighting fires in winter are major causes of these incidents,” said Bhattarai.
Authorities continue to stress the need for increased awareness and preventive measures to mitigate the risks of fire disasters.
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