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Thursday, January 15, 2004
Baseco to be redeveloped
THE Manila City Government intends to turn the tragedy of the Baseco fire into an opportunity to improve the living conditions of the people in the still undeveloped portion of the compound.
An estimated P46-million worth of properties were destroyed in the blaze Sunday night while 5,688 residents were rendered homeless.
“All the local and national agencies concerned are already moving to provide the necessary short-term and long-term assistance to the affected residents in compliance with the directive of President Arroyo,” said Manila Mayor Lito Atienza as he inspected the damage caused by the nine-hour blaze at the compound, which was declared under a state of calamity by the city council.
Temporary quarters for those rendered homeless have been put up in various places—the basketball court beside the barangay hall in Baseco, the gym of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Baseco Elementary School and the Del Pan Sports Complex.
As in previous big fires that razed a big chunk of the Baseco Compound, the National and City Governments have committed to redevelop the area again.
“A team has been formed to survey the area and prepare to carry out a development plan for the affected area, including the subdividing of lots and the construction of roads.
Atienza said the City Government will develop the area under a socialized housing program involving the implementation of proper zoning.
With zoning, there would be wider streets free from any obstruction.
Firefighters have long complained about the difficulty that their fire trucks encounter in getting near the fire scene because of narrow streets, which are blocked by obstructions.
Affected residents would also be provided with housing materials under a self-help system,” Atienza said.
At least four blocks in the compound were razed during the inferno that raged Sunday night until Monday morning. Miko Santos
(January 15, 2004 issue)
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