Baratang, September 22: Firefighters from Fire Station Baratang carried out a late-night operation to remove a massive tree that had fallen across the ATR Road (NH-04) near BD Nallah Bridge at Middle Strait, restoring road connectivity after several hours of obstruction.
The incident occurred on the night of September 21, with the firefighting team engaged in the operation from around 7:45 p.m. to 11:15 p.m.
At approximately 9:50 p.m., the SHO, Police Station Baratang, informed Fire Station Baratang that a large tree had fallen across the ATR Road, obstructing movement through the forested stretch.
Two persons were reportedly stranded at the location while travelling towards Sri Vijaya Puram through the ATR on an urgent journey following the demise of their father and brother respectively.
Following the information, the Fire Station Baratang team immediately mobilised to the location and commenced the tree-removal operation.
Considering the size of the tree, dense forest surroundings and limited visibility during the night, the firefighters deployed multiple Disaster Management implements, including a felling axe, crowbar, dao, two mechanical chainsaws and a tower light for illumination.
The operation was carried out with the assistance of personnel from the Forest Department.
After sustained and coordinated efforts, the firefighters successfully cut and removed the fallen tree, clearing the ATR Road at approximately 11:15 p.m.
The operation enabled the stranded persons to resume their journey towards Sri Vijaya Puram.
The family members reportedly appreciated the prompt response and dedicated efforts of the Fire Station Baratang personnel, particularly as the operation was undertaken during night hours in a forest reserve area.
The incident highlighted the importance of rapid coordination between the Fire and Emergency Services, Police and Forest Department in maintaining connectivity and assisting stranded commuters during emergencies along the ATR.
