After a long wait, the Civil Defense Directorate has established its first unit in the Khor Al-Zubair sub-district, west of Basra
Addressing delays in emergency response
Basra launches first fire unit in Khor Al-Zubair subdistrict
BASRA – The Basra Civil Defense Directorate has launched its first fire unit in Khor Al-Zubair, a subdistrict in western Basra province, responding to longstanding concerns over fire emergencies. Previously, the subdistrict relied on fire trucks from nearby factories that often arrived too late, leading to heightened human and material losses.
Khor Al-Zubair was officially designated as a subdistrict earlier this year. In Iraq’s administrative structure, districts and subdistricts play key roles, with districts encompassing multiple subdistricts. Subdistricts, in turn, manage specific communities within their districts.
The new fire unit consists of 12 firefighters operating in two shifts, ensuring 24-hour coverage. Located centrally on Al-Bareed Street, the unit provides quicker emergency responses for the subdistrict.
The facility includes a two-story building with five rooms, water tanks, pumps, a control room, and rest areas for staff. It is equipped with a 6-ton capacity fire truck, an 8-ton water tanker, and 500 liters of foam.
“The unit in Khor Al-Zubair subdistrict has been completed and will address fire crises quickly and with minimal losses,” said Mazen Lefteh, director of Civil Defense in Basra, in a statement to 964media.
However, challenges remain. Shift supervisor Juma Hassan noted, “We only have two air conditioners and need two more,” while also citing the need for additional electrical power to fully operate pumps and cooling systems. Residents parking vehicles in front of the fire station also obstruct emergency responses, prompting fire officials to call for cooperation in keeping access routes clear.
In late May, local tribal leaders and residents gathered to discuss the lack of administrative infrastructure in the area. The event, attended by Basra Provincial Council members and civil activists, highlighted a broader concern over insufficient services.
“Khor Al-Zubair should be like other subdistricts in the governorate, with an administrative unit and budget allocations for projects and infrastructure. The area lacks basic services and necessities, including a hospital, civil defense, traffic police, parks, family recreational areas, municipal staff and equipment, and schools,” read a joint statement from community leaders.
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