A major fire accident engulfed 38 thatched houses in Sarlankapalle village of Kakinada district in Andhra Pradesh last night, leaving several families homeless.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu today reviewed the incident. He expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and announced immediate relief of 25 thousand rupees for each affected family. He directed officials to arrange food and temporary shelter for the affected people. The Chief Minister has ordered that a new house be sanctioned for every family whose home was destroyed in the fire.