Monrovia – A trip to India in search of medical treatment ended in heartbreak for former Maryland County District 3 Representative Isaac Blalu Roland after his wife was among the victims killed in a devastating fire that swept through a multi-storey building in New Delhi.
By Peter Toe
According to international media reports, including the BBC, at least 21 people lost their lives, and dozens more were injured when the blaze tore through a building in the Malviya Nagar area of south Delhi. The fire reportedly broke out at a guesthouse that catered to foreign patients and relatives seeking medical care at a nearby private hospital.
Former Representative Roland, who had traveled to India for medical treatment, survived the tragedy but sustained injuries. His wife, who had accompanied him on the trip, did not survive.
The BBC reported that many of those affected were foreign nationals from African and South Asian countries who had traveled to India for healthcare or to support loved ones receiving treatment. More than 40 people were rescued and taken to hospitals, while authorities continue to investigate the cause of the fire.
News of Mrs. Roland’s death has sent shockwaves through Maryland County and beyond, prompting an outpouring of sympathy and support for the former lawmaker and his family.
Among those expressing condolences was former Maryland County Senator and Liberia’s Ambassador to Nigeria, John Ballout Jr.
“This is devastating. Our prayers go out to the family, and we wish Hon. Blalu a speedy recovery,” Ambassador Ballout said.
Former Maryland County Development Superintendent Robin Scott disclosed that he spoke with Roland on Thursday and was encouraged by his condition despite the immense personal loss he is enduring.
“I spoke with Hon. Isaac Roland Blalu this afternoon at 12:28 p.m., and he is sounding very much positive in terms of recovery. Let’s continue to pray for his total recovery while we are also in sympathy with him for the passing of his dear wife. With God above, he will overcome this painful situation,” Scott said.
Former Maryland County Superintendent George Prowd also described the emotional toll the tragedy has taken on the former lawmaker.
“I spoke with him late yesterday evening. He sounded down, as we would expect. It’s sad. He needs our prayers at this very moment. May God receive the gentle soul of his beloved wife,” Prowd stated.
Edward Fahnbulleh likewise extended condolences to the bereaved family and others affected by the disaster.
“My sympathy goes to the families affected by this tragedy. May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and I wish the Honorable a speedy recovery,” Fahnbulleh said.
The Liberian Government, through the Ministry of Information, has also confirmed the incident and extended condolences to the Roland family.
Dr. Roland served as Representative for Maryland County District 3 during Liberia’s 54th Legislature and remains a respected figure in the county.
What was intended to be a journey toward healing has instead become a devastating family tragedy. As condolences continue to pour in, Liberians—particularly residents of Maryland County—are mourning the loss of Mrs. Roland while praying for the former lawmaker’s full recovery.
