“How long before these fires claim lives?” – Mangkolemba CSOs urge government to establish Fire and Emergency services station

The Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) of Mangkolemba sub-division have made an urgent appeal to the Government of Nagaland for the establishment of a Fire and Emergency Services (F&ES) station in the region. The CSOs expressed their concern over the lack of necessary infrastructure and emergency services in Mangkolemba, which has left the local community vulnerable to fire-related incidents. In a formal letter addressed to S Kiusumew Yimchunger, the Advisor for Fire & Emergency Services, Home Guard & Civil Defence, the CSOs outlined their reasons for this critical request.

Mangkolemba, located approximately 65 kilometers from the district headquarters, faces significant geographical and logistical challenges. The road conditions leading to the sub-division are deplorable, making it difficult for emergency services to respond in a timely manner. According to the CSOs, the poor state of the roads makes it almost impossible for fire brigades to reach the area before significant damage is done. They noted, “By the time fire brigades arrive via these unmaintained roads, the damage is already done, reducing the response to merely documenting the aftermath rather than preventing it.”

The nearest Fire and Emergency Services station is situated in Mokokchung, and the long response time from this station further exacerbates the problem. The CSOs emphasized that without a local fire station, the area cannot hope to mitigate fire emergencies effectively.

Mangkolemba is one of the oldest sub-divisions in Mokokchung district, comprising three major ranges—Tzurangkong, Japukong, and Jangpetkong. Despite its significant size and population, the sub-division has been overlooked in terms of infrastructure development, particularly in emergency services. The CSOs expressed their frustration with the absence of a fire station in such a critical area, stating that it reflects neglect and leaves the community at risk during emergencies. “The absence of a fire station in such a significant area reflects neglect and alienates the residents, leaving them vulnerable during emergencies,” the letter noted.

The sub-division has witnessed numerous fire incidents over the years, with two major fires reported in 2024 alone, resulting in the complete destruction of homes.

Although there have been no fatalities, the loss of property has been significant. The CSOs pointed out that the community’s fears continue to grow with each fire, and there is growing concern about the potential loss of lives. “With each incident, the community’s fears grow—how long before these fires claim lives?” they asked in the letter. The lack of a nearby fire station only heightens the risks, as timely intervention is often impossible.

The letter concluded with a call for immediate action, stating that ensuring the safety of the residents is a fundamental right that must be prioritized. “The people of Mangkolemba sub-division have shown remarkable patience despite the neglect. However, this issue cannot be ignored any longer,” the CSOs wrote. They described the establishment of a fire station as not a privilege but a necessity for the well-being of the community.

The CSOs’ appeal called for the government’s urgent intervention, highlighting that a local Fire and Emergency Services station would significantly enhance the safety and security of the people of Mangkolemba. It would also serve as a symbol of the government’s commitment to equitable development and welfare across all regions of Nagaland.

The CSOs expressed hope for a positive response, urging the government to recognize their appeal as the collective voice of the people of Mangkolemba sub-division.

AKM demands Fire Station in Mangkolemba following recent blaze

The Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) has issued a demand for the establishment of a fire station in Mangkolemba sub-division following a devastating fire that destroyed five private residences, two shops, and adjoining godowns in the town. In a statement, the AKM emphasized the urgent need for firefighting facilities in all sub-divisions across Nagaland to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

“We would like to put forward our demand regarding the recent devastating fire that broke out in Mangkolemba town resulting in the destruction of five private residences, two shops, and adjoining godowns,” the AKM stated in their appeal. The organization expressed that the lack of proper firefighting infrastructure has led to significant losses in terms of property and livelihood.

To address this growing concern, the AKM urged the government to prioritize the construction of fire stations in all sub-divisions under Mokokchung district. “We urge the government to allocate funds for the construction of fire stations in all sub-divisions under Mokokchung district on top priority,” the statement read.

In solidarity with the victims of the recent fire, the AKM expressed their heartfelt support for the affected families. They also called on the community to come together in times of adversity, acknowledging the strength and resilience of the diverse communities in Nagaland.

The AKM also extended their support to the demands put forward by Temjenmenba, MLA and Advisor for Transport & Technical Education, Nagaland.

“Mangkolemba sub-division being one of the oldest sub-divisons in Nagaland which covers the ranges of Jangpetkong, Japukong and Tzürangkong has been one of the most neglected areas with poor road connectivity. The government should take this issue into consideration and provide a Fire Station service at the earliest for timely responses during emergencies,” the AKM reiterated.

Advisor Temjenmenba visits Mangkolemba fire incident site

MLA and Advisor for Transport and Technical Education, Temjenmenba, visited the fire incident site at Mangkolemba town today, 9 December, to assess the damage. He also met with the fire victims and handed them relief funds from his own side.

While interacting with the fire victims, the Advisor committed to pursuing all possible means to ensure that a fire station is set up in Mangkolemba at the earliest, along with a Disaster Response Force team. He expressed deep regret for the loss of property and conveyed his sympathies to the affected families. However, he also expressed his heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the citizens, the district administration, police, town council members, and NDPP party workers for their vigilant and brave efforts in containing the fire on time.

MT