Call for inquiry into Nongrim Hills fire incident

SHILLONG: The FKJGP Nongthymmai Circle has demanded the government to conduct a thorough inquiry into the fire incident at a petrol pump in Nongrim Hills on Friday last.
The pressure group also inspected the site of the incident and accused the petrol pump owners of flouting rules and fire safety guidelines.
“Firstly, the petrol station should not have been situated in a residential area as the distance from the boundary of the petrol station to any residential building should be at least 50 metres,” the FKJGP said in a statement.
It also pointed out that the presence of a paint warehouse and automobile workshop near the petrol station added as a potential hazard.
“The FKJGP is surprised that despite the shortcomings, the petrol station was issued a license and even the no objection certificate by the local Dorbar,” the Federation said adding that the management of the petrol station should be held accountable for the incident.
It also demanded that the license of the petrol pump be revoked.
Owner blames pedestrians
The owner of the oil tanker, Prostarland Lyngdoh, however, blamed pedestrians for the incident.
Lyngdoh lodged an FIR that on the day of the incident, despite all safety measures in place, pedestrians using cell-phones and lit cigarettes led to the fire.