A fire at a nursing home in western Sri Lanka has killed 12 elderly residents and injured eight others. The incident happened late Wednesday night in Anguruwatota, a town in the Kalutara District.
Firefighters, police officers, and local residents rushed to the scene after the fire broke out. Rescue teams managed to save 51 people from the building. They took the injured residents to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Officials said the fire spread quickly through parts of the nursing home. Emergency workers brought the blaze under control after several hours. They later recovered the bodies of victims from the damaged building.
Authorities have started an investigation to find the cause of the fire. Early reports suggest that a gas cylinder explosion may have played a role. However, investigators have not yet confirmed this information. A formal inquiry is now underway.
Police have arrested the director of the nursing home. Investigators are examining whether the facility followed safety rules and had proper emergency plans in place. They will also review fire safety measures at the home.
Photos from the scene showed severe damage to the building. Rescue workers and officials continued their assessment throughout the day. Authorities moved the surviving residents to a nearby school while they arranged alternative accommodation.
The tragedy has raised concerns about safety standards in elderly care facilities across Sri Lanka. Many people are now calling for stricter inspections and stronger safety regulations. Government officials are expected to review current policies as the investigation continues.
The fire is one of the deadliest incidents involving an elderly care facility in Sri Lanka in recent years. Authorities have promised a full investigation and said they will take action if they find any violations of safety regulations.
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