News / National
WATCH: Belarus fire engine malfunction, Gwanda Fire Brigade struggles
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A Toyota Runx was completely gutted by fire this afternoon outside Gwanda city centre, near the NSSA complex along the Bulawayo-Beitbridge Road, after the Gwanda Fire Brigade faced challenges in extinguishing the blaze.
The fire team reportedly encountered issues with their rear water pump, leaving them unable to deploy water effectively. In a desperate effort, they resorted to using a small dish donated by a bystander to scoop and collect water, which was then suctioned to douse the flames. The unorthodox firefighting method left onlookers visibly disappointed as the team struggled to control the fire.
Cause of the Fire
The vehicle, traveling from Beitbridge to Gwanda, is said to have developed a mechanical fault. The driver sought assistance from a mechanic, but as repairs were underway, the car unexpectedly caught fire.
The incident highlights concerns about the preparedness and equipment of local emergency services, particularly for incidents occurring on major routes like the Bulawayo-Beitbridge Road.
Public Reaction
Eyewitnesses expressed frustration and concern over the fire brigade's apparent lack of readiness, calling for urgent measures to equip the team with functional equipment.
"This is unacceptable. How can a fire team operate without proper tools? It's fortunate no one was hurt," said one onlooker.
The incident raises questions about the state of fire-fighting resources in Gwanda and the broader need to enhance emergency response capabilities to ensure public safety.
Authorities Yet to Respond
As of now, there has been no official comment from the Gwanda Municipality regarding the state of the fire brigade's equipment or plans to address the shortcomings exposed by this incident.
The fire team reportedly encountered issues with their rear water pump, leaving them unable to deploy water effectively. In a desperate effort, they resorted to using a small dish donated by a bystander to scoop and collect water, which was then suctioned to douse the flames. The unorthodox firefighting method left onlookers visibly disappointed as the team struggled to control the fire.
Did Gwanda get the fire engines from Belarus or not? pic.twitter.com/qQRet0fzJ2
— Bulawayo24 News (@Bulawayo24News) November 18, 2024
Cause of the Fire
The vehicle, traveling from Beitbridge to Gwanda, is said to have developed a mechanical fault. The driver sought assistance from a mechanic, but as repairs were underway, the car unexpectedly caught fire.
The incident highlights concerns about the preparedness and equipment of local emergency services, particularly for incidents occurring on major routes like the Bulawayo-Beitbridge Road.
Public Reaction
Eyewitnesses expressed frustration and concern over the fire brigade's apparent lack of readiness, calling for urgent measures to equip the team with functional equipment.
"This is unacceptable. How can a fire team operate without proper tools? It's fortunate no one was hurt," said one onlooker.
The incident raises questions about the state of fire-fighting resources in Gwanda and the broader need to enhance emergency response capabilities to ensure public safety.
Authorities Yet to Respond
As of now, there has been no official comment from the Gwanda Municipality regarding the state of the fire brigade's equipment or plans to address the shortcomings exposed by this incident.
Source - The Chronicle
