Absence of fire services in Mangkolemba raises alarm
Early Tuesday morning, a devastating fire completely destroyed a government quarter in the Nokyu Ward of Mangkolemba. The fire broke out around 1:00 am in the RD Block Government Quarter, which had been allocated to the NST department by the Additional Deputy Commissioner of Mangkolemba.
The quarter was entirely razed to the ground, resulting in significant property loss. Fortunately, no casualties or injuries were reported. However, several belongings and goods inside the quarter were lost to the flames.
The cause of the fire is currently unknown, and an investigation has been initiated. Photographs of the incident have been submitted to the Mangkolemba Police Station and an official report filed by Noklangji, the NST Assistant Station In-charge of Mangkolemba.
Mangkolemba, located approximately 65 kilometers from the district headquarters, lacks fire and emergency services. “With poor road conditions and the absence of a local fire brigade, the residents of Mangkolemba are left vulnerable to the devastating effects of fire incidents,” a local resident said.
The nearest Fire and Emergency Services (F&ES) station is in Mokokchung, but it lacks the necessary resources, such as helicopters, to effectively tackle fire incidents in distant areas like Mangkolemba.
This incident has highlighted the pressing need for establishing a dedicated fire and emergency services station in Mangkolemba, which is home to three out of the six ranges in the Mokokchung district—Tzurangkong, Japukong, and Jangpetkong.
Local residents urge authorities to consider the matter with the utmost seriousness and take immediate steps to set up a fire station in Mangkolemba to ensure the safety and protection of residents and their properties.