Agartala, March 1:
A major fire disaster was narrowly avoided in Agartala’s densely populated Maharajganja Bazaar area on Saturday afternoon, thanks to the swift intervention of the Tripura Fire and Emergency Services.
A fire broke out in an underground gas pipeline near the bustling market area, posing a severe risk to life and property.
Firefighters led by team leader Manoj Debbarma from nearby Maharajganja fire station promptly arrived at the scene with four fire engines, working tirelessly to control the blaze.
After a prolonged effort, they successfully extinguished the fire; however, the situation remains critical due to the continuous leakage of highly inflammable gas from the damaged Tripura Natural Gas Company Limited (TNGCL) pipeline.
Debbarma emphasized that the risk of re-ignition remains high, as the gas continues to escape at great speed. Given the volatile situation, the fire brigade has maintained its presence in the area to prevent any resurgence of flames.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the pipeline may have been damaged due to excavation work in the vicinity. TNGCL officials visited the spot but are currently awaiting the stoppage of the gas flow before initiating repair work on the leak.
Authorities have taken strict precautionary measures to prevent any casualties. A large contingent of security forces has been deployed to the area, and movement of vehicles has been temporarily restricted to avoid potential accidents.
Meanwhile, shopkeepers and residents have expressed concerns over safety, urging authorities to expedite repairs and prevent future incidents.
