Challenges Faced by Firefighters in Extinguishing a Fire at Glodok Plaza, Cooling Process Continues
A raging fire at Glodok Plaza, a shopping center in Jakarta, has presented significant challenges for firefighters battling to extinguish the flames and ensure the safety of all individuals involved. The firefighting operation, which commenced on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at 11:57 AM local time, has been a complex and arduous task for the brave men and women on the front lines.
Difficulties in Accessing Upper Floors
Firefighters have been utilizing a bronto skylift vehicle to combat the fire that has spread across the 7th, 8th, and 9th floors of Glodok Plaza. Despite their best efforts, two teams have faced obstacles in penetrating the upper levels of the building due to smoke and lingering flames blocking their path. Additional teams may be required to assist in the firefighting operation, as access to these floors remains challenging.
Seksi Pengendalian Operadi Kasiop (Kasi OPS) of the Fire Department’s Firefighting and Rescue Division, Syarifuddin, highlighted the struggles faced by his team in reaching the 6th floor. The ongoing cooling and evacuation efforts, particularly in search of missing individuals, have been centered on the 4th floor, making it difficult to navigate through the building and address all remaining hotspots.
Search for Missing Individuals
As the firefighting operation continues, the authorities have reported that five individuals remain unaccounted for following the blaze at Glodok Plaza. Among them, one individual has been identified as a cashier at a nightclub, emphasizing the diverse range of people impacted by the tragic incident. The search for these missing persons remains a top priority for the rescue teams involved in the operation.
Collateral Damage and Future Steps
The fire at Glodok Plaza has also spread to adjacent buildings, posing a threat to the surrounding area and necessitating swift and decisive action from the firefighting teams. Syarifuddin emphasized the challenges posed by the fire’s expansion and its impact on neighboring structures, underscoring the importance of containing the blaze effectively to prevent further damage.
As the cooling process continues and the search for missing individuals intensifies, the firefighters at Glodok Plaza remain dedicated to their mission of extinguishing the fire and ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals involved. Their unwavering commitment and tireless efforts in the face of adversity serve as a testament to their courage and professionalism in the line of duty.
