Statement: While laying pipelines by a utility company, a huge fire broke out due to damage to an existing pipeline. Courses of Action: I. Suspend all licences of the utility company immediately pending inquiry into the incident. II. Advise residents in the area to stay indoors and secure the zone to avoid burn injuries and further harm.

Introduction / Context:An accidental pipeline breach has triggered a major fire. Immediate public safety and incident containment are paramount; punitive/administrative steps come after facts are established.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Active fire due to pipeline damage.
• Residential area potentially exposed.

Concept / Approach:Valid actions first minimize harm: evacuation or shelter-in-place advisories, cordoning, shutting valves, firefighting, and medical readiness. License suspension of all operations (I) is sweeping and premature without preliminary findings; it could also disrupt essential services.

Step-by-Step Solution:1) II is an immediate harm-reduction measure and follows logically.2) I requires due process and proportionality; suspend specific operations if needed after an initial probe, not blanket licences instantly.3) Therefore, only II follows.

Verification / Alternative check:Incident-command protocols everywhere put life safety first, then stabilization, then investigation.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:I is overbroad and premature; “Both” overreaches.

Common Pitfalls:Jumping to punishment before ensuring public safety.

Final Answer:Only II follows.