How prepared are Indian cities to tackle fire incidents?

Incidences of fire have sparked the need for fire-preparedness in smaller cities! In April last year, a fire broke out at the Indira Gandhi Medical College & Hospital in Shimla, where 250 people had to be evacuated from the OPD wing.

Most buildings in Himachal lack fire-safety NOCs as the rules for implementing the HP Fire Fighting Services Act 1984 remain unapproved. Similarly, it was found that Visakhapatnam’s 47-year-old fishing harbor lacked sufficient fire-fighting facilities & on-premise fire engines when a fire broke out in November.

A fire incident in a Delhi coaching center prompted safety checks in Prayagraj’s numerous coaching institutes as a precautionary measure, revealing non-compliance with safety protocols.

Following the massive Police Bazaar fire incident in Shillong, a ₹44 crore proposal was put forward to enhance the state’s fire services. It also highlighted the need for small fire tender vehicles, due to the city’s unplanned growth & narrow lanes.

Some cities have already established fire safety policies that have resulted in better outcomes.

In September, a safety awareness drive was held in Nagrota’s NCC Camping grounds. With around 28,000 fire awareness & training events like these held across J&K, a 31% reduction in fire incidents occurred in 2023.

During New Years, Kozhikode’s Fire & Rescue Services department had increased surveillance. Strict monitoring of public spaces & firecracker use ensured quick response & easier access for rescue units.

Vadodara's fire safety facility, FirePlex-Agnisankul has been inaugurated as a comprehensive training space for industry professionals.

With rapid urbanization, strategic planning for fire safety becomes crucial for smaller cities as well. Meanwhile, citizens also play an important role as first responders in emergency situations.

Staying informed, participating actively in fire drills, ensuring housing compliance with safety norms & reporting hazards can make communities safer.

Have there been any major incidents of fire in your city? How have the city authorities handled such situations?