27-7-2023 (YAGON) A staggering toll of 55 fatalities and 126 injuries was reported by Myanmar’s fire services department on Thursday, revealing the grim consequences of fire accidents during the initial half of 2023. The nation was plagued by 942 fires from January to June, inflicting extensive damage totaling over 13.66 billion kyats (equivalent to 6.5 million U.S. dollars), according to the department’s figures.
The report compiled by the department further disclosed that a distressing count of 8,852 individuals fell victim to these devastating accidents within the six-month span. Moreover, more than 2,500 buildings, encompassing residential homes, factories, and storehouses, were also ravaged by the relentless fires.
April emerged as the most alarming month, recording the highest number of fire outbreaks during the cited period, closely trailed by February and March. The data illustrated a disheartening total of 205 fire accidents in April alone, snuffing out 16 lives and leaving 21 others wounded.
Diving into the causes behind these harrowing incidents, the report identified several factors responsible for igniting the flames in the first half of the year. Stove fires, negligence, electrical faults, arson, forest fires, and lightning were identified as the key culprits. Shockingly, the highest number of fire outbreaks stemmed from electrical faults, with negligence and stove fires following closely behind in the ranks.
Comparing this year’s statistics with the previous year’s records, it becomes evident that the situation has not improved. Last year, Myanmar witnessed 1,507 fire accidents that resulted in 96 fatalities and 139 injuries, painting a concerning trend of fire-related disasters in the Southeast Asian nation.
