http://oheraldo.in/node/9587
S Goa fire force not fiery enough? BY HERALD REPORTER MARGAO, FEB 8 — Is the district fire services, South well equipped in terms of manpower and facilities to handle disasters in view of the rising incidents of fire and emergency calls. This is a question facing the fire services as the district fire station, South responded to about 816 calls last year. This includes 377 fire calls, 327 emergency calls, 99 rescue calls and a dozen calls relating to tanker accidents transporting hazardous chemicals. Incidentally, the district lost property worth Rs 2.65 crore in fire accidents, while property saved was put at Rs 12.71 crore. But, sources in the know say the four fire stations in South, including Margao, Verna, Curchorem and Canacona need to be upgraded with additional manpower and facilities. Take for instance the Margao fire station. The fire station has about 16 firemen, when the requirement is put at around 30-35. The fire stations at Verna, Curchorem and Canacona also require additional manpower to keep pace with the demands, sources informed. What's more, firemen in the know say Salcete is in need of another station or an outpost, either around Cuncolim or in the coastal belt to attend quickly to fire and emergency calls. Incidentally, the growing number of calls to attend to chemical tankers involved in accidents has given an added dimension to the fire fighting operations in the district. And, with 12 such incidents occurring last year, firemen call for making available a dedicated crane to attend to such calls. "We are totally dependent on private players from Goa and across the border to tow ill-fated tankers away. A dedicated crane would help remove the vehicles immediately", contended Assistant Divisional Fire Officer, South Ashok Menon. What's more, the absence of a heavy duty lighting system was felt during last year's tragic landslide at Dicarpale, burying 11 UP labourers. The rescue operations were hit for want of adequate lighting system, sources said. -- Peace be with you! Gabe Menezes. London, England
