Rangamati, Aug 17 (V7N) – Local residents of Baghaichhari, the largest upazila in Rangamati Hill District, have reiterated their demand for the immediate establishment of a Fire Service and Civil Defence Station through a press conference held Sunday morning in Rangamati town.

The event took place at a local restaurant under the banner of the people of Baghaichhari. Advocate Mohammad Rahmat Ullah, a lawyer at the Rangamati District and Sessions Judge Court, delivered the keynote address on behalf of the community.

He highlighted that Baghaichhari spans 1,931.28 square kilometers and is home to approximately 130,000 residents across two police stations, one municipality, eight unions, and 17 mouzas. Despite its size and population, the upazila still lacks a dedicated fire service station, putting the area at severe risk during fires, natural disasters, or other emergencies.

Rahmat Ullah noted that a formal memorandum was submitted to the Deputy Commissioner of Rangamati and discussions had been held with officials from the Fire Service and Civil Defence Department. Although officials acknowledged the demand as reasonable and assured action, no significant progress has been seen, prompting the need for this public appeal.

Speakers stressed that in the absence of a fire service station, residents face heightened vulnerability and insecurity during emergencies. They argued that an operational station is essential not only for rapid response to incidents but also to protect lives and property.

During the press conference, speakers outlined three key demands:

  1. Immediate establishment of a full-fledged Fire Service and Civil Defence Station in Baghaichhari.

  2. Deployment of skilled personnel, modern firefighting equipment, and dedicated emergency vehicles.

  3. Regular fire safety training programs for local residents to build community preparedness.

The press conference was attended by Advocate Mohammad Rahmat Ullah, Mohammad Rezaul Karim, Advocate Zillur Rahman, student leaders Al Amin, Alomgir Hossain, and Rakibul Islam.

The organizers urged authorities to act without delay, emphasizing that the current lack of facilities poses a grave threat to the region’s safety and resilience.

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