Manipur: LPG Cylinder Explosions Trigger Massive Fire, Five Shops Reduced to Ashes in Chandel’s Tampi Junction
A devastating fire, reportedly triggered by multiple LPG cylinder explosions, destroyed five commercial shops at Tampi Junction in the Chakpikarong subdivision of Manipur’s Chandel district on Monday evening, July 27, causing extensive property damage.
According to officials and local residents, the blaze erupted in a row of shops situated within a residential compound owned by ST Chunggam of Tampi village. The fire spread rapidly after several LPG cylinders stored inside one of the establishments exploded one after another, engulfing nearby shops in a matter of minutes.
The powerful explosions intensified the flames, making it extremely difficult to contain the fire. Within a short period, all five commercial establishments were completely gutted despite efforts by local residents to stop the blaze.
Following the incident, emergency services were alerted immediately. Teams from Chakpikarong Police Station, 43 Assam Rifles, and the Sugnu Fire Station rushed to the location. However, due to the considerable distance of approximately 12 kilometres between Sugnu Fire Station and Chakpikarong headquarters, firefighters were unable to reach the scene before the fire had caused extensive destruction.
Before the arrival of the fire brigade, local volunteers, police personnel, and Assam Rifles troops, led by Assistant Commandant Ravinder Kumar, successfully managed to bring the flames under control, preventing the fire from spreading further.
The incident has once again renewed demands for establishing a dedicated fire station in Chakpikarong subdivision. Residents and civil society organisations, including the Anallon Chiefs’ Association (ALCA), have repeatedly urged authorities to set up a local firefighting unit to ensure quicker emergency response and reduce losses during similar disasters.
Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported in the incident.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the fire or the total value of the damaged property. Officials stated that a detailed investigation has been initiated to determine the origin of the blaze, and all possible angles, including the possibility of foul play, will be examined.
