A massive fire erupted in Tappa Jamni village of Uttar Pradesh’s Budaun district on Wednesday night, reducing around 200 houses to ashes. The inferno reportedly began after a transformer sparked during a severe thunderstorm. Panic gripped the village as residents fled for safety, with flames rapidly spreading through the closely packed dwellings.

According to local sources, one person sustained burn injuries while attempting to escape the fire. The injured has been admitted to the community health centre in Ujhani for treatment. Several heads of cattle also perished in the blaze, adding to the villagers’ losses. Authorities and rescue teams reached the site hours later to douse the flames and assess the damage.

Officials have begun a preliminary investigation to determine the cause and extent of the damage. District authorities are arranging temporary shelters and food for those displaced. The disaster has left the community in shock, with appeals for compensation and support pouring in from local leaders and citizens’ groups.