Major Fire In Capital Cost Millions In Damages

Bandar Seri Begawan – A big fire broke out on Sunday night destroying a whole block of shop unit at Jalan Batu Bersurat, in Gadong in the Brunei capital.

The loss of property was estimated at millions of dollars.

The Fire Services Department stated that they received an emergency call at around 10:55 pm.

The fire gutted a Block of six shop units and 3 other blocks.

No less than 10 Fire Engines from Berakas, Bandar Seri Begawan, Jerudong, Tumasek and Laut arrived on the scene in a combined effort to control the fire.

The Public Works Department also helped by sending out water tankers.

One victim was reported to have suffered slight bruises to the hands.

The affected blocks of shops included a tyre shop, a restaurant and several shops selling hardware and paint.

Explosions were also heard during the fire.

At least 50 Senior Officers and fire fighters were involved in the effort to control the situation.

The fire also gutted several cars parted near the area.

But owners saved some vehicles in time.

According to witnesses most of the shop tenants did not live in the premises.

The prevailing strong winds also did not help controlling the fire.

The situation was particularly bad for a shop that stored highly inflammable substances like hardware and paint.

To deal with this, the Fire Brigade used special fire abating chemicals.

To control the fire, the fire fighters immediately set up a 'Forward Command Force' or 'Control Centre' at the location. This effort also allowed the force to release the latest information to the public.

The fire finally abated around 1:45 am, more than two hours after the incident.

Fire Brigade officials said low water pressure in the Fire Hydrants was also a factor that impeded their efforts to control the situation.

To support their water supply, the Fire Brigade had to pump up water from the nearby river.

The major outbreak is believed to have caused loss of property costing millions.

Investigations are being continued to find out the cause of the fire.

Meanwhile, only a few shop tenants were aware of the tragedy affecting their businesses. -- Courtesy of Radio Television Brunei 

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