KARACHI:
Within the last few months, several fire incidents have been reported in Tharparkar. Earlier this month, more than 20 houses caught fire in Mithi prompting owners to evacuate immediately. Most residents belong to the working class. Their houses are made of thatched materials, which have raised the risks of fire and eventual loss of life and important belongings including livestock.
Fire incidents are expected to increase during the summer season, which will threaten people’s financial stability. Despite, the rising number of fire cases, the district administration is not equipped with the necessary equipment, vehicles, and trained staff to respond to the emergencies promptly. The delay in rescue operations has resulted in higher losses.
The provincial government should urgently take note of this and provide the district authorities with sufficient funds and resources to respond to fire emergencies. People should be assisted in building fire-resistant houses and provided with alternatives to firewood. The authorities must protect the poor and vulnerable during this time of high inflation and reduce their problems.
Mukesh Raja
Tharparkar
Published in The Express Tribune, March 22nd, 2023.
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