Fire that started in a shop at Khermahal road junction, Dimapur at around 1.15 a.m. Friday, soon spread to three others and it could have been catastrophic, had it not been for the valiant efforts personnel from the Nagaland Fire Service, the Army’s 50 ASC Battalion and Airports Authority of India (Agni Vijay), who finally managed to contain it after four hours.
Eyewitnesses claimed, that a power cable caused sparks on contact with the CGI roof of one of the shops. One of the shop owners said as soon as the wire snapped, they saw sparks on the roof, after which fire started.
Several attempts were made to contact the power department office to shut down power but no one responded. Fire tenders of the Nagaland Fire Service, arrived minutes after being informed but could not immediately direct water canons due to the live cable.
Power was cut off only after some personnel went to the office after which fire personnel broke open the shutters to direct the water cannons at the flames.
It may be pointed out that the Fire Service personnel faced intense head and noxious smokes without protective gear.
Responding to the SoS, the Army’s 50 ASC Battalion (Supply Depot) arrived and joined the battle against the raging fire. DC Dimapur Hushili Sema, on being informed swung into action and got the Airport Authority of India (AAI) Dimapur to despatch the fire tender. Hushili also wasted no time in rushing to the spot to take stock of the situation and remained till the fire was brought under control.
Around ten fire tenders were pressed into service from Nagaland Fire Services, Army’s 50 ASC Bn (Supply Depot) and Airports Authority of India (Agni Vijay). Estimates of losses was put at around Rs.2 crore that also included Lathe machine, motor parts, vehicle accessories, batteries, lubricants etc.
Lessons: The fire incident has served a reminder for an additional fire station in Dimapur as the city requires at least 20 fire tenders with adequate water sources earmarked. Refilling of water tanks has been a problem while condition of fire engines/trucks needs to be in perfect working condition. Fire personnel should also be given adequate protective clothing including face masks. Storing of inflammable items has to be banned in shops and garages also shifted away from residential areas.
Telephone lines of police stations, hospitals, power stations need to be in perfect working condition and personnel attending phones have to be on their toes in case of emergency.
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