Atotal of 79 fire incidents were reported in in Dimapur and Chümoukedima during the year 2025, and the leading cause was electrical short circuits.
The rainy season is not yet over as the withdrawal of southwest monsoon usually begins in the Northeast in mid October, but Dimapur has already begun experiencing fire incidents. A devastating fire broke out at Kuda-B Khel on Wednesday, reducing several houses to ashes and leaving more than 100 families homeless. This occurred just weeks after an inferno damaged the 3D Hall of Nagaland Science Centre in Dimapur, not far from Kuda village. Both incidents are suspected to have been caused by an electrical short circuit, as is often the case. The data maintained by fire stations in Dimapur and Chümoukedima, showed that a total of 79 fire incidents were reported in these two districts during the year 2025, and the leading cause was electrical short circuits. It also exposed a clear pattern of widespread destruction with most cases reported during the dry season—between October and April. This highlights the dangers associated with ignoring fire safety measures. Additionally, most incidents are attributed to electrical short circuits, often originating in older buildings and "kutcha" houses made with materials like thatch and bamboo, which makes it difficult to stop the spread of fire. This pattern must be broken to curb fire incidents. It also underscores the urgent need for basic fire safety practices, including inspection of electrical installations at regular intervals and controlling open burning practices.
Given that electrical short circuit, which is typically caused by damaged wire insulation due to age or overheating, loose connections, substandard appliances, or faulty installations, is the leading cause of fires in the state, it is imperative that the authorities and citizens address this issue promptly. Using of high-quality wires and proper installation by a licensed electrician are also essential to prevent electrical short circuits. Equally important is the need to strengthen the Nagaland Standardised Development and Building Regulations and the Nagaland Building Bye-Laws, particularly those pertaining to obtaining building permits and ensuring setbacks in site plans. Adhering to fire regulations and safety practices, such as maintaining adequate spacing between houses and possessing basic firefighting equipment, will significantly contribute to fire prevention. Failure to do so is akin to playing with fire.