IPOH: A temple and 22 other buildings were destroyed in a pre-dawn fire in Bagan Pasir Laut, Hutan Melintang.
Perak Fire and Rescue Department director Sayani Saidon said the incident, which saw 21 houses and one eatery gutted, is believed to have occurred at about 4.50am yesterday.
“When the distress call came in, initial information was that five homes were on fire.
“When we arrived at the location at 5.05am, there were several former members of the local voluntary fire brigade trying to put out the fire,” she said in a statement yesterday.
Tragic start to the day: Residents inspecting the aftermath of the fire in Bagan Pasir Laut, Hutan Melintang. — Photo courtesy of the Perak Fire and Rescue Department
The fire spread quite quickly due to the proximity of the buildings and low water pressure from the fire hydrants compounded the situation, she said.
“We also brought in some water tankers for assistance,” Sayani said, adding that there were about 150 houses in the area.
“Another challenge was to avoid getting electrocuted by electric cables, which were sparking during the firefighting operation.”
The blaze was brought under control at about 7.30am.
“The entire operation ended at 10.45am after ensuring there were no more embers,” she said.
According to witness accounts, the fire is believed to have started in one house.
