One dead, another hurt in Zira farm fire
In a tragic incident, a youth died while another got severely injured after a fire broke out in the agricultural fields near Neelewala village of Zira sub-division on Sunday.
As per information, the fire spread out very rapidly across nearby villages, including Vakeelan Wali, Sadhu Wala, Lehra Rohi, Mahian Wala, reducing vast stretches of standing crops and fodder to ashes. Owing to strong winds, the blaze engulfed around 50 acres of standing crops and stubble residue in around 100 acres, causing extensive loss.
Two youths, identified as Karan and Arjun, who were travelling on a motorcycle were caught in the field fire near Dhanna Shaheed village. While Karan died on the spot, Arjun got severely injured and was rushed to the Civil Hospital in Zira. He was later referred to Guru Gobind Singh Medical College, Faridkot.
According to initial reports, the fire suspected to have originated following a spark falling off the main electricity line in Neele Wala village and within minutes, the flames spread uncontrollably to nearby villages.
Notwithstanding, the prompt response from the fire brigade and collective efforts by locals using private tractors, it took several hours to bring the fire under control. The incident also posed a major threat to a nearby petrol pump, which narrowly escaped catching fire, averting a potentially disaster.
DC Deepshikha Sharma said the administration was providing all support to save the life of second youth who got seriously injured.
