Let us thank those who led firefighting

As the fire broke out in Brahmapuram, Kochi was unsure of the magnitude of damage it can cause. Despite the obvious dangers and risks, the Fire and Rescue Services led the fire fighting in Brahmapuram. The fire protection systems of central public sector undertakings BPCL, Petronet LNG, Port Trust and CIAL were also part of the effort. The Navy and Air Force also cooperated with the fire force. The role played by its drivers, other workers and officials with around fifty JCBs is also commendable. Many participated in the mission by facing near-death situations.

What should be highlighted more than this is the work of the fire brigade. Firefighter VV Babu, who fell down in the Brahmapuram swamp while fighting the fire, came back to life only by luck. Babu fell into the swamp on March 11 at 12 am. The accident occurred while he was trying to help after the water pump broke down. Those who came with him did not even know that Babu had fallen into the swamp. Babu screamed as he sank up to his neck, and was rescued by the people using a rope. A minute's delay in the rescue would have cost his life. Like Babu, the people who worked there day and night to douse the fire and smoke.

The sincere work of all sections like the home guards, civil defence volunteers, and revenue officers who performed the co-ordinating duties is worth mentioning. Theirs was an activity for which all the people of Kerala should be thankful. If they face health problems in future, they should not be left alone to deal with it. The government should be ready to provide all kinds of free medical services to them. And in consideration of their selfless service, each of them should be given a special reward. There should be no distinction between non-government employees.

The 40-foot-high garbage in Brahmapuram is mixed with organic waste and plastic. Several years ago, when the Harita Tribunal imposed fines on this, the corporation approached the High Court and obtained a stay on the proceedings. The fact that the stay continued for years actually made the Brahmapuram problem so bad. After getting the stay, the corporation did not do anything to properly dispose of the waste. The result of all this is what we experience through Brahmapuram smoke. Although the fire has been temporarily extinguished, the threat of fire cannot be said to be completely gone as the hot summer continues. Therefore, it is imperative that the concerned parties continue monitoring.