Difficulties in Fire Extinguishing at Glodok Plaza Due to Unstable Buildings

Kapanlagi.com - A massive fire shook Glodok Plaza, West Jakarta, on Wednesday night, January 15, 2025. The fire first broke out on the 7th floor of this crowded building and quickly engulfed the 8th and 9th floors, which are known as nightlife centers like discotheques and karaoke. It is suspected that the rapid spread of the fire was caused by flammable materials and the use of fuel gas inside the building.

The Jakarta Fire and Rescue Service (Gulkarmat) quickly launched firefighting operations. A total of 27 fire trucks and 160 personnel were deployed to face the raging flames. However, significant challenges arose due to the unstable condition of the building, especially in the central part, which hindered firefighting efforts.

As of Thursday early morning, the officers were still struggling against the flames that continued to burn in several spots. In the tense situation, nine people trapped inside the building were successfully evacuated safely and without serious injuries. However, the blazing fire not only scorched the building but also left debris that obstructed the officers' access to carry out their duties.

1. The Beginning of the Fire: From the Disco to the Karaoke Floor

A terrifying fire struck Glodok Plaza at 21:25 WIB, starting from the 7th floor, which is the center of nightlife entertainment. According to Syarifudin, the Head of Operations of the West Jakarta Gulkarmat Service, it is suspected that the fuel gas used in the disco was the main cause of the rapid spread of the fire to the upper floors.

In a short time, the fire consumed the 8th and 9th floors, known as the karaoke area, creating a panic atmosphere. Although firefighters immediately responded to the reports, the challenges of difficult access and flammable materials accelerated the destruction of the building.

2. Evacuation Process: Nine People Successfully Rescued

Amidst the raging fire, nine souls were trapped on the upper floors of the building, caught in the panic that engulfed the workers and visitors of the disco and karaoke.

However, behind the tense situation, the firefighters fought diligently, overcoming pressure to save them after hours of effort.

Once successful, the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) immediately checked the health conditions of the nine fortunate victims, and they were declared stable.

Although no lives were lost in this tragic incident, the frightening experience will remain etched in their memories forever.

3. Extinguishing Challenges: Unstable Building Structure

The fire extinguishing process faces various intimidating challenges, especially with buildings beginning to collapse due to the heat and flames that have been raging since the night. This situation makes it difficult for the officers to reach the central area of the building, forcing the focus of the extinguishing efforts to be redirected to the exterior.

Efforts to tackle the blaze inside the building lasted more than nine hours, while Satriadi reported that although the main structure still stood, the central part of the building had begun to collapse. The falling debris added obstacles and increased risks for the officers struggling on site.

4. Extinguishing Efforts: Bronto Skylift and Fire Stick Technology

In an effort to extinguish the flames raging on the upper floors, firefighters sprang into action with advanced tools like the bronto skylift and fire stick.

With great bravery, two officers ascended to the height using the bronto skylift, spraying water onto the burning hotspots. Meanwhile, the area around the building was filled with puddles of leftover extinguishing water, and the burnt smell lingered as far as 30 meters away.

The fire department team worked tirelessly until dawn, ensuring that no remaining embers posed a danger.

5. Impact of the Fire: Losses and Recovery

The fire that struck Glodok Plaza not only devastated its iconic building but also shook the economic pulse of the surrounding area.

Most of the electronics stores that attracted visitors have now vanished in the blaze. However, hope remains as the recovery process began swiftly after the fire was brought under control.

The traders are eagerly awaiting the government's assistance to expedite renovations and provide support, so they can return to selling and revive the vibrant atmosphere at Glodok Plaza.

6. What caused the fire at Glodok Plaza?

This shocking fire is believed to have started on the seventh floor, known as the disco area, where the flames spread rapidly due to the presence of highly flammable fuel gas.

7. How many victims were successfully rescued?

Nine people who were trapped were successfully evacuated by the fire department officers.

8. What are the main challenges in extinguishing the fire?

The extinguishing process was hindered by serious challenges, where unstable building structures and falling debris posed a major threat to the officers battling the fire.

9. How long did the firefighting process last?

The fire that lasted more than nine hours left a dramatic trace, where some flames were still blazing until dawn, creating a haunting atmosphere that reminds us of the unpredictable power of nature.

(kpl/rmt)