Nishar Mohammed & Vikramaditya
Port Blair, Apr 30: In the wake of the devastating fire that engulfed Billiground Bazaar in the wee hours this morning, Mr. Sankar Mondal, the Zilla Parishad Member representing Harinagar Constituency in North & Middle Andaman District, has called for accountability and compensation for the affected shop owners.
Early this morning, a destructive fire incident ravaged several shops in Billiground Bazaar. The fire broke out around 1:50 AM, with locals promptly alerting the fire department. As per details, eleven shops and three wooden godowns were engulfed by the flames, prompting firefighters from Billiground, Rangat, Bakultala, and Mayabunder to rush to the scene. By 3 AM, they had brought the blaze under control.
In a letter addressed to various authorities including the Lieutenant Governor, Chief Secretary, Director General of Police, and Deputy Commissioner, Mr. Mondal highlighted the urgent need to establish accountability for the massive fire incident. He emphasized the importance of tracing any negligence or irresponsible practices that may have contributed to the irreparable loss of shops and properties.
Mr. Mondal expressed regret over the fact that the Fire Brigade of Pinakinagar was present at the scene but failed to prevent the spread of the fire due to the obsolete condition of their equipment. He urged authorities to thoroughly investigate the matter and take appropriate action against those responsible for the negligence.
Furthermore, Mr. Mondal appealed to the authorities to ensure maximum possible compensation for the affected shopkeepers, acknowledging that while the loss incurred cannot be fully compensated, it is essential to provide support to help them recover from the tragedy.
Meanwhile, in another letter addressed to the Director General of Police and the Chief Fire Officer of the A & N Administration, Mr. Mondal highlighted the immediate need for reinforcement at the Fire Station in Billiground following a massive fire accident that occurred on April 30, 2024.
Upon inspection of the fire station and assessment of the recent fire incident, Mondal discovered critical shortages in essential resources. He outlined the urgent requirements as follows:
1. Modern Fire Tender: 01 No
2. Pick up Van: 01 No (Model functioning properly, required for narrow roads)
3. Modern portable engine: 02 Nos (type pump set along with section and delivery pipe)
4. Posting of Sub-Inspector: 01 No
5. Fireman (Constable): 04 Nos
Mr. Mondal emphasized that the necessary sanction for the aforementioned manpower and machinery is vital to effectively manage fire accidents and safeguard lives and properties in the Billiground area.
