Sundarbans fire: Low tide delaying dousing operation

The firefighting personnel on Sunday have started dousing operation in the Sundarbans East Zone's Amurbunia area, following a fire that erupted on Saturday.

The operation, which began at 9 am on Sunday, saw the coordinated efforts of the Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Forest Guard, and Fire Service.
The initial response was led by a ten-member team from the Mongla naval base. Following this, members of the Fire Service attempted to set up water extraction from the nearby Bhola River.

However, the operation faced a setback due to low tide conditions, delaying the water supply.

Kazi Muhammad Nurul Karim, the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Sundarbans East Zone, stated that logistical challenges prevented the operation from starting sooner.

"The Navy, Coast Guard, and Air Force joined the Fire Service this morning to accelerate efforts. Local volunteers are also lending significant support," he reported.

Mamun Ahmed, Deputy Director of Bagerhat Fire Service and Civil Defense, detailed the deployment of additional firefighting units.

"Five units from various locations were dispatched to the site this morning, with three from Mongla, Morrelganj, and Shoronkhola actively engaging in the firefighting efforts. The remaining two units are on standby," he said.

He also noted the challenges posed by the tidal conditions, which have hindered the transportation of necessary equipment such as additional pipes. "The fire is spreading slowly through dry leaves and poses no significant risk at this time," Ahmed added.

Concerning the origin of the fire, DFO Karim acknowledged that the exact cause is still unknown.

"We are considering various reports from locals and have formed a three-member investigation committee led by Assistant Conservator of Forests Rana Dev to determine the cause," he concluded.

SA