Want to install fire hydrants in slums

Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) Mayor Atiqul Islam yesterday said they want to install fire hydrants in slums so that its dwellers can respond immediately and minimise losses in case of fire incidents.

"We want to install fire hydrants on the premises of the slums. If we can do it and train slum dwellers how to use them, they will be able to respond immediately," he told reporters while visiting and distributing relief among residents of Sattola slum in Mohakhali that witnessed a devastating fire on Monday, which gutted over 500 shanties.

By using fire hydrants, it will be possible to douse or contain the fire before fire officials arrive, he said.

"You will see a reflection of it in the (DNCC) budget. There will be allocation for it," he said, adding that officials concerned have already been instructed to this end.

Fire fighters will also be able to use those.

Replying to a query, the mayor said illegal gas connection in slums is a reality as authorities cannot give legal connection without permanent addresses of residents.

The mayor while distributing relief to the victims at IPH School and College playground at Mohakhali said they have arranged Tk 5,000, three meals, corrugated iron sheet and dry food of around Tk 2,000 for each family.

"No victim of fire will have to suffer as we will take all necessary steps in this regard," he said.