The 15-year-old Mupliang Presbyterian Church in West Jaiñtia Hills district was reduced to ashes in a devastating fire in the wee hours today.
The fire broke out in the Church at about 1:30 am and left the place of worship totally gutted.
According to the church elders, there is a possibility that the fire could be due to short circuit. The fire began from the store room of the church where a generator was also stored, they said.
Members of the church said the fire spread rapidly by 2 am as attempts were made to seek help by sounding the church bell. However, nothing could be done as they helplessly watched the raging fire consume everything inside the church.
Fire tenders from Jowai, the district headquarter, couldn’t reach the village on time due to the distance, which is about 17 kms.
While no casualties have been reported, the fire has caused extensive damage to the property, which is estimated at around Rs 1.5 crore.
The loss of the church building has left the faithful devastated as number of them were seen sitting at the premises to mourn the loss.
An elderly member broke down in tears as she informed that the church built 15 years ago had undergone a face lift with fresh paint. She said the church had just procured music instruments, sound system and all these as well as other items were reduced to ashes.
