By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 29: A potential massive forest fire scare was quelled in Golf Links, a residential area with nearby schools. The cause of the fire remains unknown, but Rangbah Shnong, Michael Hek, credited timely intervention from the Dorbar and CRPF personnel for bringing the situation under control.
Speculation suggests the fire may have been ignited by an irresponsible individual lighting a cigarette in the forest. Hek expressed ongoing efforts to safeguard the forest from anti-social elements but noted challenges due to land conflicts between the Shillong Club and Thangkhiew clan.
Several mature trees, aged between 50-60 years, were also removed from the forest with permission from the Divisional Forest Officer. This preemptive action was taken aimed at preventing any harm to passersby, particularly considering the strong winds in the area.
Upon receiving the alert, Battalion Commandant, CRPF, Sunil Kumar Sabita mobilised resources, dispatching a water tanker and soldiers to the scene.
The CRPF team’s response effectively contained the fire, averting a potential disaster, especially given the proximity of a nearby children’s school.
Hek highlighted that there have been several attempts to address concerns by reaching out to the DC through a written correspondence, but lamented a lack of response thus far.