Nestled far away from the district headquarters, the Mangkolemba subdivision is facing a pressing issue that requires immediate attention: the lack of 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.
Mangkolemba, located approximately 65 kilometres from the district headquarters, has been grappling with substandard road infrastructure. Travelling from Mokokchung to Mangkolemba during emergencies becomes a daunting task, making it nearly impossible for fire brigades to reach the affected areas on time. The consequences are dire, with little to salvage by the time help arrives.
One major concern is the absence of a dedicated Fire and Emergency Services (F&ES) department within Mangkolemba. The nearest F&ES is situated in Mokokchung, but it lacks the necessary resources, such as helicopters, to effectively tackle fire incidents in distant areas like Mangkolemba, which further hampers the efforts to control fires promptly and save lives and property.
Despite being home to three out of the six ranges in the Mokokchung district—Tzurangkong, Japukong, and Jangpetkong—the residents of Mangkolemba have remained relatively silent about their plight. The lack of proactive advocacy has left them feeling isolated and ignored within their district. The people of Mangkolemba must raise their voices collectively and demand the establishment of a local fire and emergency services unit.
In recent years, the Mangkolemba subdivision has witnessed numerous fire incidents, resulting in the near-complete destruction of homes. Fortunately, no human lives have been lost so far, but the losses in terms of properties and materials have been substantial. This alarming trend calls for urgent action to prevent potential tragedies in the future.
The time has come for the residents of Mangkolemba to awaken from their slumber and unite in their demand for essential services. The lack of fire and emergency services is just one example of the rights and resources denied to them. It is imperative to address these issues one step at a time, focusing on immediate concerns that directly impact the safety and well-being of the community.
It is hoped that this call for action will catalyze change, prompting relevant authorities to recognize the urgent need for a local fire and emergency services department in Mangkolemba. The lives and properties of the subdivision’s residents should not be compromised due to geographic remoteness or inadequate infrastructure. By standing together and demanding their rights, the people of Mangkolemba can strive towards a safer and more secure future.
Let this be a wake-up call to the authorities and a rallying cry for the people of Mangkolemba—the time to act is now.