The Ao Lanur Telongjem (ALT) has demanded that the state government establish a fire station at Mangkolemba sub-division at the earliest.
Extending heartfelt sympathies to victims of the December 8 devastating fire at Mangkolemba that gutted five private residences, two shops, and adjoining godowns, ALT convener Imnaonen Pongen and co-convener K Tia Longchar said the incident proved the utter neglect of the sub-division by the government over so many years that even basic public utility like a fire station was not in place.
Pointing out that Mangkolemba was not only one of the oldest and important sub-divisions in Mokokchung district but also the headquarters of three ranges, the organisation maintained that the recent fire incident should not have had such devastation had there been a fire brigade. Hence, it demanded establishing a fire station immediately.
With the onset of dry season, ALT feared that such fire incidents might occur time and again, and, apart from the colossal material loss, even precious lives might be lost in the near future.
Hence, it argued that it was imperative for Mangkolemba sub-division to have a fire-brigade apart from other amenities, hoping and expecting the state government to positively respond to its genuine demand and initiate work on priority basis. ALT also urged the authority concerned to provide compensation to the fire victims so that their loss and misery could be alleviated to some extent.