Daily Hot Topic
Topic : Burning Issue: Fire Safety in India
GS-3 Mains : Disaster Management
Revision Notes
Grim Reality
- Recent fires in Delhi and Rajkot expose India’s vulnerability to fire disasters.
- Over 7,500 fire accidents led to 7,435 deaths in 2022 (NCRB data).
- Maharashtra and Gujarat account for 30% of fire-related deaths.
- Incidents like Uphaar Cinema (1997), AMRI Hospital (2011), Kamala Mills (2017) highlight persistent neglect.
Reasons for Frequent Fire Accidents
- Non-compliance with fire safety regulations (Rajkot gaming center incident).
- Weak municipal oversight due to understaffing and resource constraints.
- Neglect of existing guidelines in National Building Code (2016) and state fire safety rules.
- Fire safety audits in National Building Code are only recommendatory, not mandatory.
- Inadequate firefighting infrastructure – less than 40% of required fire stations in urban India.
Existing Standards
- National Building Code (NBC) 2016: Provides fire prevention, protection, and life safety guidelines for buildings (Part 4).
- State Fire Services Acts: Define fire service powers and enforce regulations.
- BIS Standards: Set benchmarks for fire equipment (extinguishers, hoses, alarms).
- Central Government Oversight: Director-General (Home Affairs) and National Fire Service College (Nagpur) manage fire safety and training.
Government Initiatives
- 2023 Scheme: Upgrading fire services in states by 2025-26 (equipment, training, new stations).
- Model Bill: Establishing efficient fire and emergency services at the state level.
- NDMA Guidelines: Scaling, equipment, and training for fire services nationwide.
- Fire Safety Audits: Mandatory audits every two years for buildings exceeding 15 meters.
The Road Ahead
- Strict Enforcement: Rigorous enforcement of fire safety regulations and penalties for violators.
- Infrastructure Investment: Addressing the shortage of fire stations (less than 40% in urban areas).
- Municipal Capacity Building: Enhancing resources and training for regular fire safety inspections.
- Policy & Monitoring:
- Strict adherence to National Building Code and state fire safety regulations.
- Regular audits, especially in vulnerable facilities (hospitals).
- Accountability & Reforms:
- Stringent penalties and legal action for violators.
- Fast-track implementation of recommendations from past fire disaster investigations.
- Prioritizing Healthcare: Ensuring fire safety in healthcare facilities due to flammable materials and vulnerable patients.