Satellite fire units in Fort, Chalai confined to paper

Thiruvananthapuram: A satellite fire station in the fire-prone areas of Chalai and Fort is yet to become a reality despite back-to-back fire outbreaks. Though three different spots were in consideration, it has got stuck in red-tapism. Last month also, a major fire had gutted part of a theatre close to Chalai.

“First we were shown a land South of Padmanabhaswamy temple close to which fire outbreaks were reported. This property had caught in legal disputes. Secondly, they offered us a fire station at Erumakuzhy. For this, we will need to pay rent to City Corporation which was not affordable. Thirdly land was offered inside Central School. However, due to the politics-related upkeep of school, we did not get space here also,” said a senior fire and rescue official. Six satellite stations were envisaged at Attukal, Medical College, Pallichal, Beemapally, Veli and Muttathara. 

To reduce the need for extensive premises, the fire and rescue officials have recently acquired mini truck mounted mist firefighter. However, they were still stationed at existing stations at Chenkalchoola and Chala. “All the firebreaks at Chalai- Fort areas happened during odd times at night or early morning. In a satellite fire station, we just need space for at least four to five rescue personnel to rest,” the official added.