DAMAK: None of the fire-engines operated by the municipalities in Jhapa could be used in controlling the fire. Engines in Damak, Bhadrapur and Mechinagar municipalities had been pleaded for help but non came to the refugees' aid. Secretary Gurung said, "We called all three fire-engines of Jhapa for help, only to learn that they were out of order." Fire-engines from Dharan, Itahari and Biratnagar had to be called as a last resort. The vehicles arrived only after two hours owing to the distance. The one in Damak has its transfer gear broken down, awaiting repair for the past 18 months. The fire-fighting squad said the water pump was damaged and had failed to use another to replenish the tank under five minutes. The fire-engine was donated by the UNHCR. The special-purpose vehicles in Mechinagar and Bhadrapur are also said to have been out of order. Assistant CDO Pokhrel said executive officers of the municipalities would be asked to clarify the matter.