Huge Blaze Razes Hundreds of Homes in Shan State’s Namhsan

By Zarni Mann 4 February 2016

MANDALAY — A massive fire tore through northern Shan State’s Namhsan on Thursday, reportedly destroying over 200 homes.

According to local eyewitness, including those who lost their homes, the blaze burned out of control as authorities struggled to gain access down narrow streets. Locals said the blaze broke out at a home used to store green tea leaves on Thursday afternoon.

“The fire engines could not [reach the affected area] but everyone helped the firemen extinguish the fire as much as they could. All of the houses were built from pinewood so the fire easily devoured them,” said Maung Kyaw, a local administration officer in the northern Shan State town.

According to local authorities, fire engines from Kyaukme, Hsipaw and other nearby towns were on their way to the scene at time of publication, while a temporary shelter for displaced persons was opened at the town’s monastery.

A full story will follow when more information becomes available.