Massive fire guts wheat crops, 200 families hit

Gaya: A massive fire on Friday afternoon gutted standing wheat crops spread over nearly 300 bighas of farmland at Naili village under Sarbahda police station area in Atri block, affecting around 200 families.The blaze spread rapidly from one field to another due to strong winds, triggering panic among villagers. Residents rushed to the fields and tried to douse the flames using buckets, pipes and other makeshift means, but failed to contain the fire.“About 200 families have lost their entire crop. The fire spread quickly with the wind,” villagers said, adding that they suspect foul play.Fire tenders were rushed to the spot, but by the time they arrived, the blaze had intensified and caused extensive damage.District agriculture officer Sanjeev Kumar said, “Fire tenders were sent immediately after receiving information. Crop damage assessment and investigation will be carried out by the administration through the circle officer. The incident falls under disaster management provisions, and compensation will be decided and provided accordingly.”The exact cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained. Naili village is located about 2 km from Mahkar, the native village of Union MSME minister Jitan Ram Manjhi.