Colombo, June 5: A devastating fire broke out at an elder care center in Sri Lanka, resulting in significant loss of life and injuries. Local police confirmed on Thursday that the incident occurred in the western province of Sri Lanka on Wednesday evening, leading to the deaths of 12 individuals.
According to reports from Xinhua, local authorities stated that rescue teams managed to evacuate 44 people safely, while seven others sustained injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Officials reported that three individuals remain unaccounted for. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Local media indicated that the Horana Magistrate’s Court has remanded the facility’s director until June 11.
As per the well-known Sri Lankan media outlet Ada Derana, six individuals were admitted to the hospital with serious injuries and are currently receiving treatment at the Horana Base Hospital. Approximately 50 survivors were temporarily housed at the Batagoda Junior School on Wednesday night.
The Horana Magistrate, Lakshmini Vidhanagamage, visited the site and conducted a magistrate inquiry into the incident. Police noted that 71 people were residing at the center at the time of the fire. With assistance from the Sri Lankan Army, those affected were safely transferred to the center’s second branch in Galapatha. The Anguruwatota police are continuing their investigation.
Another media outlet, Lankan News Web, reported that this care center is also known as ‘Senehase Kedela.’ It is a well-known facility for the elderly, gaining significant recognition on social media platforms. Videos shared online showcase the daily lives of the residents.
Reports indicate that celebrations for birthdays, festive gatherings, and light-hearted moments between staff and residents have attracted a large audience, making the residents familiar faces for many social media users.
–
K.K./ABM
Leave a Comment