Mokokchung: Rs 2 crore worth of property lost in Tzusapang Saw Mill fire

Firefighters denied nearby water access

A massive fire broke out at Tzusapang Saw Mill, owned by Tajung Nukshi, in the early hours of Friday, April 4, resulting in an estimated property loss of approximately Rs 2 crore, Mokokchung fire officials reported.

According to the officials, the distress call was received at 1:34 AM. The cause of the fire remains unknown at the time of filing this report. The blaze destroyed machinery and a vehicle, while firefighters managed to save property worth around Rs 60 lakh.

Firefighters from both Fire Station (North) and Fire Station (South) responded swiftly, deploying three fire tenders – two from the North and one from the South. The police and Assam Rifles personnel also assisted in fighting the fire.

The firefighting operation lasted over eight hours, with a total of 18 trips of water supply used to extinguish the flames, the officials informed. No casualties were reported.

However, fire officials reported facing difficulties in obtaining water for the operation. They stated that they had requested permission to use water from the pond near Fazl Ali College (FAC) but ‘surprisingly’ were denied access.

“We were denied from using the water from the pond. As a result, we had to rush to the South Station (Police Station 2) to replenish our stock, as our reserves were depleted due to excessive use in combating the inferno. This delay made it more challenging to control the fire,” a fire official stated.

The official further urged the public to allow firefighters to use nearby water sources during such emergencies, stating that timely access to water can significantly impact firefighting efforts.

“We sincerely appeal to the public to allow us access to nearby water sources during such emergencies in the future – it can make a critical difference in saving lives and property,” they added.

MT