Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo
PANIC gripped the National University of Science and Technology (Nust) yesterday morning when a raging grass fire swept towards key buildings, threatening infrastructure worth millions of US dollars.
The blaze, suspected to have been started by a reckless person outside the campus, first broke out at the Zimbabwe School of Mines before heavy winds pushed it into Nust grounds.
Bulawayo Chief Fire Officer, Mhlangano Moyo, said his team raced against time to stop the flames from torching critical facilities.
“We received the call at around 9:30am to the effect that there was grass fire within the Zimbabwe School of Mines grounds and due to strong winds we had the fire spread to Nust,” said Moyo.
He said his crew quickly split into two teams — one fighting the blaze at the School of Mines, while the other defended the Nust complex.
“The fire was getting worse due to the heavy winds. I’m grateful and proud that the brigade managed to contain the fire. Nothing was burnt, and quite a number of valuable items were saved,” said Moyo.
When B-Metro visited the scene, a vast tract of land was charred black, stretching dangerously close to the administration block where Econet and NetOne boosters are mounted.
Thanks to the swift response, critical spots such as the Ethanol plant, chemical block, transport workshop, hostels and the campus clinic were spared.
“The brigade mobilised four fire engines and a total of 25 firefighters to manage the situation,” added Moyo.
Students and staff watched in fear as smoke billowed across the sky, but relief soon spread when the flames were finally contained.
derick.khumalo