18th August 2023 14:56:27 Hours
Around evening hours on Thursday (17 Aug), a Water Care Technology Chemical factory in the Homagama Industrial Estate caught a major fire, prompting the Army to step in and assist the firefighters to douse the outbreak.
On the directions of the Commander of the Army, more than 200 troops jumped into action and provided their support, including Officers from the 1 Sri Lanka Light Infantry, 5 Field Engineer Regiment, 14 CBRN Regiment and 18 Sri Lanka National Guard. Army troops in cooperation with Kotte and Horana fire brigades assisted to douse the raging fire.
At the same time, to support the firefighting operation, the Army also utilized an ambulance, two water bowsers from the Security Forces Headquarters - West and one water bowser and a JCB from the 1 Field Engineer Regiment. These vehicles played a crucial role in supplying water and assisting in the operation to bring the fire under control.
In addition, as the fire was raging, the Army troops worked tirelessly to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading further. Their efforts, combined with those of the firefighters, ensured that the fire was brought under control, minimizing the damage caused to the Chemical Factory and the surrounding areas.
During this task, the Army's assistance was closely monitored by the Commander of 142 Infantry Brigade and respective Commanding Officers under the guidance of the Commander Security Forces -West.
