Port Blair, Aug 25: The Member of Parliament, Shri. Kuldeep Rai Sharma has requested the Chief Secretary to set up a Fire Service Unit in Long Island, Middle Andaman.
In a letter addressed to the Chief Secretary, the Member of Parliament mentioned that on 23rd August 2023, a devastating fire broke out at a private resort of Long Island, causing extensive damage to the private resort.
He mentioned that the absence of a dedicated Fire Service unit on the Island exacerbated the situation, leading to uncontrollable flames that could not be subdued, despite the valiant efforts of the local residents and PRI members.
The Member of Parliament pointed out that Long Island holds a significant place in the tourism landscape of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, with plans for further promotion as a tourist destination in the pipeline. Additionally, it is home to a substantial population, yet the absence of a Fire Service unit has left the Island vulnerable to fire-related emergencies.
In view of these circumstances, he requested the Chief Secretary to set up a small, well-equipped Fire Service unit at Long Island.
He suggested that as Long Island does not have black top roads, this unit may include a compact fire tender (Mini Pick-Up size), essential fire-fighting equipment, modern powerful water pumps and a mobile firefighting unit. Such provisions will enable the local residents of Long Island and others to manage any fire incidents promptly before they escalate into unmanageable situations, he said.