NRZ Reveals That Cigarette Stub Caused Fire That Burned Decommissioned Couches

Following an extensive investigation, the NRZ confirmed that a cigarette stub was the catalyst for a fire that ravaged numerous decommissioned coaches at its Bulawayo station. The incident, which took place in September, led to the destruction of 40 coaches, valued at approximately $40,000, marking a significant loss for the organization.

The fire raised initial suspicions within the organization and the public due to its similarity to a previous fire involving coaches in Harare. Concerns were voiced about possible arson attacks targeting NRZ’s assets. However, investigations conducted by NRZ indicate that the cause was more likely accidental rather than deliberate sabotage.

Findings from the NRZ Investigation

Speaking before the Parliamentary Committee on Public Accounts, NRZ’s general manager, Respina Zinyanduko, reported on the organization’s internal investigation. Zinyanduko revealed that a cigarette stub, discarded by an employee who likely sought a hidden spot to smoke, ignited the blaze. Due to strong winds, the stub quickly caused flames to spread across the nearby coaches.

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NRZ Bulawayo Workshop Fire — NRZ shares Bulawayo fire was caused by cigarette stu [Image: The Chronicle]

NRZ’s policies strictly prohibit smoking within its facilities. Zinyanduko indicated that some employees were probably flouting these policies by smoking within the decommissioned coaches, which acted as a secluded space away from direct supervision.

“The report I received from our loss control department, as well as an internal commission of inquiry comprising various NRZ departments, points to employees smoking in areas where it is not allowed. This is likely how the cigarette stub was left smouldering, and strong winds caused the fire to spread”

Value and Condition of the Destroyed Coaches

The destroyed coaches were decommissioned assets, past their operational lifespan and slated for disposal or refurbishment. Zinyanduko clarified that the fire did not incur a significant financial loss as the coaches were already stripped of their seats, which had been repurposed for operational trains.

The loss was termed scrap waiting to be disposed of at some point.

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NRZ’s Assessment of Loss

Despite the low operational value of the coaches, NRZ estimated the scrap value of each at around $1,000, leading to a total loss of approximately $40,000. Zinyanduko mentioned that she inspected each affected coach, confirming they could still be sold as scrap metal even after the fire damage.