Construction of Kasama District’s first-ever fire station in Northern Province is progressing well.
Kasama Municipal Council Assistant Public Relations Manager Charity Chaiwila said in an interview that the K6.9 million project is steadily advancing.
Ms Chaiwila expressed delight at the development, noting that the new facility will provide a modern and conducive working environment for firefighters, who are currently operating from a garage.
“The construction of the fire station is progressing well. The project, funded by the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, is on course, and the contractor is on site carrying out the works,” she said.
“We hope the contractor can expedite the works. Once completed, the project will not only enhance service delivery to the people of Kasama but also transform the district’s outlook.”
Meanwhile, Kasama Municipal Council Acting Director of Engineering Services, Chitundu Mwila, disclosed that the project has reached 57 percent completion.
Mr. Mwila acknowledged the slow pace of progress, attributing it to delays on the part of the contractor.
He explained that once completed, the fire station will comprise four offices, four dormitories, two kitchens, two ablution blocks, a gym, and dining rooms, among other facilities.
“The contractor is on site, but we are somewhat concerned about the rate of work. By this stage, the project should have moved to finishing works such as painting, plastering, and flooring,” Mr. Mwila said.
“Currently, the structure is roofed, but a substantial amount of work remains. The local authority has since called for a meeting to discuss how best to expedite completion.”
The government, through the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, has funded the project at a cost of over K6.9 million.
The new fire station is designed to meet modern standards and enhance the capacity of the fire and rescue services to respond effectively to emergencies in Kasama District.
