Margao Municipal security personnel are trained to handle hoses in emergency firefighting operations. Santosh Mirajkar
MARGAO
Shortcomings came to the fore as the FireServices, along with PWD and Margao Municipal officials, conducted a fireemergency reality check at the Margao Municipal markets late on Wednesdayevening.
While the fire hydrants installed in the newmarket area received adequate water pressure, questions were raised about thewater pressure at the adjoining Gandhi Market.
When the fire officials arrived at the spotand wanted to open the hose cabinet, the person in possession of the key wasnot around. Representatives of the new market, including Gopal Naik andDigambar Sawal, however, said the key was kept in the office of the Municipalmarket inspector.
The fire hydrant coupling was also not foundby the fire officials, before it was realised that the coupling was in thepossession of a PWD official.
While the shortcomings were termed minor,sources said they could have a bearing on firefighting capabilities before thearrival of the fire brigade. “The keys to the hose cabinets and the firehydrant couplings should all be kept at designated spots in the market. Markettraders, as well as MMC workers and security personnel, should be made aware ofthese items and their locations,” said a fire official.
He added: “With these items, securitypersonnel, MMC workers or traders can start firefighting operations before thearrival of the fire brigade. The moment a fire breaks out in the market, thesystem should be set in motion to stop it from spreading before the firebrigade arrives.”
Fire brigade personnel imparted training to acouple of MMC security personnel in handling and operating the hose. Fireofficials have urged the MMC to send its workers, security personnel andtraders to the fire station for training in operating the fire hydrants.
