Dimapur and Chümoukedima recorded 79 fire incidents in 2025, causing heavy property losses and highlighting urgent fire safety concerns.
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DIMAPUR — A total of 79 fire incidents were reported across Dimapur and Chümoukedima districts between January 2025 and December 29, 2025, according to official data compiled from various fire stations operating in the two districts.
The figures highlight a significant number of fire-related emergencies during the year, resulting in substantial loss of property and raising concerns over fire safety and prevention measures.
The Central Fire Station, Dimapur, recorded the highest number of incidents, receiving reports of 51 fire cases during the period under review. Of these, in four incidents the Central Fire Station provided assistance to the West Fire Station, while similar assistance was provided to Assam Fire Station on four occasions.
A breakdown of the incidents shows that 28 major fires occurred within Dimapur district, while 17 major fire incidents were reported from Chümoukedima district. In addition, seven cases were identified as forest fires, which primarily occurred during the dry season and posed a threat to nearby residential areas and vegetation.
Data maintained by the fire stations indicates that electrical short circuits emerged as the leading cause of fire incidents, accounting for 22 cases.
Other contributing factors included the burning of household waste and bushes, which often spread uncontrollably due to dry conditions and strong winds.
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The report also recorded three fire incidents linked to the traditional practice of smoking meat, highlighting the risks associated with open flames.
Furthermore, two cases were attributed to LPG gas leakage, while one incident resulted from overheating of frying oil.
Notably, one fire incident at the railway quarters in Dimapur was suspected to be a case of burglary and arson. Several other incidents could not be conclusively traced to a specific cause and were therefore classified as unknown.
Under the Chümoukedima Fire Station jurisdiction, a total of 22 fire incidents were reported during the year. Of these, 10 cases were caused by electrical short circuits, reinforcing concerns over faulty wiring and inadequate electrical safety practices.
Meanwhile, two incidents were reported as arson-related, while one case each was attributed to lightning strikes and kitchen fires. Another incident was caused by an unattended flame (diya), underlining the dangers posed by open flames when left unsupervised. The remaining incidents under this jurisdiction were recorded as having unknown causes.
The West Fire Station reported six fire incidents during the same period. Of these, five incidents were attributed to electrical short circuits, while one case remained undetermined due to the lack of clear evidence regarding its cause.
In terms of property damage, the report reveals substantial financial losses resulting from fire incidents. An estimated INR 6.88 crore worth of property was damaged or destroyed in 43 fire incidents that fell under the jurisdiction of the Central Fire Station, Dimapur.
Similarly, property worth approximately INR 2.98 crore was lost in 22 fire incidents in Chümoukedima district. However, the report noted that data on property losses under the West Fire Station jurisdiction was excluded, as detailed assessment reports were unavailable at the time of compilation.
A month-wise analysis of the data shows a seasonal pattern in the occurrence of fire incidents. The highest number of fires was recorded in April, with 10 incidents, coinciding with dry weather conditions. This was followed by October and December, which each recorded eight fire incidents, while November reported seven cases.
The data underscores the urgent need for improved fire safety awareness, regular inspection of electrical installations, and stricter control over open burning practices to prevent future incidents and reduce loss of life and property.