A fire broke out near runways and the no man land at the Biju Patnaik International Airport here on Thursday creating panic among the airport staff and passengers. The incident took place at a time when the frequency of flight operation (landing/take off) at the airport was high, sources said. However, the airport authorities managed to douse the flames.
“A fire broke out on grasses near runways on Thursday. Fire brigade and CISF teams were pressed into service immediately,” said airport Director Sharad Kumar. However, the exact reason behind the fire was yet to be ascertained. Meanwhile, Sharad Kumar sought help from the State Fire services wing and the Khordha Collector to avoid fire mishaps in future.
“Since it is summer, our own fire team has to be extra careful. But that is not enough and we need help from the State Fire department. We have talked to the Fire Services DIG and Khordha Collector over the matter,” said Kumar.
Homeguard and Fire Services ADG M Nageswar Rao said dousing flames at airport requires special equipment which we are short of. Still, we would be there to provide help during emergency time.