Theseus Mauruki Shambare in BULAWAYO
BULAWAYO firefighters have warned residents against deliberately burning rubbish and other combustible materials following a fire involving tyres and waste at a property along Ironbridge Road in Belmont.
The fire broke out at Number 14 Ironbridge Road and was reported by neighbouring property owners after they noticed the blaze and feared it was getting out of control.
Bulawayo Fire Station Chief Fire Officer Mr Mhlangano Moyo said firefighters found a heap of rubbish and tyres on fire when they arrived.
“While we were explaining the importance of these vehicles, there was a fire that broke out at Number 14 Ironbridge Road, Belmont. On arrival, we found it was a heap of rubbish and tyres that were alight,” Mr Moyo said.
Firefighters encountered difficulties accessing the property after the owners allegedly refused to open the gate, forcing the crew to climb over the perimeter wall to reach the fire.
Mr Moyo said one jet and one hose were used to contain the blaze.
“Luckily, we used one jet and one hose to deal with the fire,” he said.
He said the fire brigade’s assessment indicated that the burning had been deliberate.
“We noted that it was deliberate burning. According to our bylaws, the City of Bulawayo doesn’t allow such burning. So we are going to fine them for that,” Mr Moyo said.
The incident occurred while journalists were touring Bulawayo Fire Station during a media tour organised by Belarusian company Bison Agro Machinery.
Four firefighting machines acquired under the Zimbabwe-Belarus Government-to-Government cooperation are stationed in Bulawayo and are already being used in emergency responses.
Two fire engines were deployed during the Ironbridge Road fire. Mr Moyo said the equipment operated without problems during the response.
“These two vehicles managed to deal with the fire,” he said.
Bison Agro Machinery director Andrea Kleinov said the incident occurred while the media tour was underway.
“Although it is unfortunate that the fire broke out deliberately, at least the media had the opportunity to see the fire tenders responding to an actual emergency,” he said.
The fire was contained before spreading to neighbouring properties, and no injuries were reported.
Authorities are expected to follow up on the alleged deliberate burning and impose the applicable penalties under the city’s bylaws.
