Damage assessment, clearance works underway at Mao Market

In the aftermath of the massive fire that broke out at Mao Market in Kohima on February 27 evening, clearance works, recovery of items and dousing of smoke emanating from the charred structures were going on Tuesday.

Firefighters were dousing swirls of smoke still emanating from the charred structure of the market buildings and surroundings. Assisted by volunteers and firefighters, the shopkeepers and shop owners were engaged in damage assessment and clearance works. The Nagaland Police and volunteers from T-Khel, Kohima village were assisting in manning the entrance as curious public looked on.

While most of the things were burnt to ashes, some of the shopkeepers were able to recover items like thrift garments, partially burnt rice and eggs, vegetables, fruits and other items. The recovery of four albino mice found alive after the massive fire was a heartwarming sight to the people around. 

At least six residential buildings including Sokhriezie market and Bethel Medical Centre also bore the brunt of the inferno. The Centre had put up a ‘shut down’ notice of the Out-patient department as well as emergency as the building being partially affected. The in-patients had been shifted to other healthcare facilities since Monday night.

OC Fire Station Kohima South, Sedevizo Hibo, told Easter Mirror that the fire is now under control and a mopping-up operation for the Mao Market building is on.

However, the adjoining market made of plank and tin housing was completely razed. The planks turned into charcoal due to the fire which is why smoke was emanating, he said.

He added the investigation is on for the incident.

While the Fire and Emergency Services warned people from entering the building, the shop owners and shopkeepers were given a chance to pick up items that were saved from the fire in the Mao market building.

Inaugurated in 1999, the Mao Market is a famous vegetable shopping centre for residents of Kohima, particularly those belonging to the South area.

Mao Market in-charge/ chairman also told this newspaper that there are 85 shops in the Mao Market building complex. He directed the shopkeepers to assess and bring out reports on estimated damage done due to the fire.

It may be noted that various groups and individuals provided refreshments for those working at the sight.

Assessment Committee set up

It was learnt that an assessment committee led by the additional deputy commissioner of Kohima and members of various backgrounds has been set up on Tuesday to take up the matter. After assessing the situation and the damage done, the committee is expected to bring out a report.

Related news: Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio visits Mao Market fire incident site in Kohima