Bhopal, Jan 9 (NationPress) In a heartbreaking incident, three young girls, including a five-month-old infant, lost their lives after a hut was engulfed in flames in Madhya Pradesh's Damoh district, as confirmed by police on Thursday.

The tragedy took place in Baroda village, situated approximately 35 kilometers from the district headquarters.

Authorities stated that the fire ignited while the family was boiling potatoes on a stove inside the hut. The girls' father was working nearby, while their mother had stepped outside just moments before the flames erupted.

The mother recounted to the police that as she went outside to attend to some tasks and converse with her husband, who was approximately 200 meters away, the hut was suddenly overtaken by flames. Both parents rushed back to the scene, desperately trying to save their daughters trapped inside.

Other villagers quickly joined in, attempting to extinguish the fire by pouring water on it. Despite their swift actions, the fire spread uncontrollably, trapping the children within.

Upon receiving the alert, police arrived at the scene and retrieved the bodies of two sisters -- Janvi (5) and Kirti (3). The third child was found unconscious.

The toddler was immediately taken to a hospital in Damoh for emergency treatment. Due to her severe condition, doctors later referred her to Jabalpur Medical College for advanced care late on Wednesday. Unfortunately, she succumbed to her burn injuries on Thursday morning, as reported by authorities.

Govind Adivasi, the girls' father, informed the police that the precise cause of the fire remains uncertain, noting that even their mobile phone was lost in the blaze. Investigations are ongoing to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav expressed his heartfelt condolences and declared financial aid of Rs 2 lakh for each family affected by this tragedy. The chief minister shared this announcement on social media, extending his support to the grieving families.

Local authorities are currently gathering evidence and assessing the situation to clarify the details of this unfortunate event.