Sunday, September 5 2010

ONE WEEK after their respective mega stores were completely destroyed by fire, management of the two established businesses, in North and Central Trinidad, were yet to receive word from Fire Prevention Officers as to whether or not the fires were arson or accidental.

Up to yesterday, an official from the Superstore Limited in Arima told Sunday Newsday, that they have not seen or heard from any of the fire officers who were on the scene of the fire at O’Meara Industrial Estate. The official added that they were not even given any apology or explanation as to why they had no water and foam to extinguish the blaze.

It was reported that on Monday, at about 12.15 am smoke was seen emanating from the back of the Superstore Limited building. Eyewitnesses said the fire quickly spread, consuming the entire building and all its contents. The store is owned by Rattan Ramkissoon. The fire left about 75 workers on the breadline.

The company’s secretary Anisa Ali Bocas expressed disgust on the “no water situation” and the “poor” response and “terrible attitude” of the fire officers.

In a separate incident, on Sunday at about 5.30 pm a fire broke out at Buyers Mart, Market Street, Chaguanas, completely destroying the building and its contents. The loss incurred was estimated to be approximately $10 million. The fire left about 15 workers on the breadline.

When contacted yesterday for a status report on investigations, Buyers Mart owner, Robin Roopnarine said he was yet to get a feedback from fire investigators.

Efforts to contact the TT Fire Services for an update on both investigations, yesterday, proved futile.