ZWG2 million property goes up in flames at RMS warehouse

PROPERTY valued at about ZWG2 million was destroyed in a fire at the Road Motor Services (RMS) warehouse in Bulawayo yesterday morning.

The swift response by Bulawayo’s Fire Brigade prevented the blaze from engulfing the entire building.

The fire broke out at the RMS warehouse, located along 13th Avenue Extension opposite the Veterinary Services Department at around 7.37am.

Bulawayo chief fire officer, Mr Mhlangano Moyo, said firefighters arrived to find the 150m x 30m corrugated iron warehouse, used for carpentry and metal fabrication by informal traders, already in flames.

The fire consumed chipboards and a variety of goods worth ZWG1,9 million.

“We had to gain access through the roof using ladders as the premises were secured. Four jets, a hose reel, and a breathing apparatus were deployed, supported by four fire engines. Fortunately, no injuries or casualties occurred,” said Mr Moyo.

He commended the prompt reporting of the fire, which enabled a quick response, saving state-of-the-art machinery in the warehouse.

Mr Moyo said the incident serves as a reminder of the critical role of the Fire Brigade in safeguarding the community and its assets.

A witness, who declined to be named, said the fire could have spread rapidly, endangering other businesses, but the Fire Brigade’s swift action averted disaster.

“Fortunately, the Fire Brigade reacted swiftly and managed to put out the fire before it spread to other business premises,” said the witness.

Business owners at the premises declined to comment about the incident.