Dimapur’s New Year was marred by devastating fire incidents
reported on three consecutive days starting on January 1, rendering more than
200 households homeless, destroying properties worth crores of rupees and
taking away the source of livelihood from many. But the sound of fire truck
sirens is not uncommon in Nagaland, especially in urban settlements, during the
dry and windy season. The recent fire incidents should serve as a warning to
the public- to be vigilant and take safety measures to avert tragedy.
Considering the fact that most police investigations into the cause of fire
point to electrical short circuits, the citizens should take the responsibility
of ensuring proper installation of electrical appliances, proper electrical
ground system, keeping appliances dry and inspection of wiring by professionals
at regular intervals. Unplugging electrical devices when not in use can also
help avoid a short circuit. Such measures are vital for averting fire
incidents. The concerned authorities can also create awareness among the public
about the need for electrical safety practices besides strictly implementing
safety laws such as the National Building Code of India and Model Building
Bye-laws. With no proper town planning amid rapid urbanisation, some lanes are
too narrow for fire engines to ply, thus obstructing rescue operations and
efforts to dose infernos. People should help themselves for their own safety
and that of others.
We also should be worried about wildfires, as they can have
a devastating effect on the forest ecosystems, wildlife and humans, as is seen
in Los Angeles, where wildfires have killed at least two dozen people and
ravaged thousands of homes till date (as of January 14). It may be recalled
that the famed Dzüko valley was almost destroyed about four years ago when
wildfires burnt down more than 14 square km of forests near the scenic valley,
which is home to many species of flora and fauna. It took more than 10 days for
the firefighters and volunteers to douse the fires that erupted on 29 December
2020. The recurrence of such incidents should be prevented. People of Nagaland
should be extra vigilant this dry season, as this is the time for farmers, who
still practice traditional jhum cultivation, to burn vegetation to clear land
for farming. In such cases, controlled burning can not only prevent wildfire
but also help maintain the health of a forest. District administrations,
village councils and civil society organisations should reiterate restrictions
on the unauthorised setting of fire to forests. For timely response during
emergencies and mitigation of damage, the government also should set up
adequate fire stations as recommended by the Standing Fire Advisory Committee.
As per the information provided by the Fire and Emergency Services department
on its portal, the state currently has 21 fire stations, with more such
facilities in the offing. But this is grossly inadequate. A survey conducted by
the Ministry of Home Affairs in 2012 suggested that Nagaland should have at
least 48 fire stations after analysing topography, population and
administrative setup.
