New Delhi: India is currently experiencing a severe heatwave, with temperatures soaring to new highs. The nation’s fire departments are on constant vigil, tackling an increased number of fires with great urgency. This year’s intense heat has led to a significant rise in fire emergencies, presenting considerable challenges for the country’s firefighters. Amidst these trying circumstances, they stand as valiant heroes and saviours.
In Delhi, where temperatures have hovered around 48 degrees Celsius for the past two weeks, the Delhi Fire Service is receiving an average of 200 calls daily, a 25% increase compared to the same period last year. The excessive use of air conditioning units, often without proper maintenance, has been cited as a primary cause of these fires. Atul Garg, Delhi Fire Service chief, emphasised the importance of regular electrical maintenance to prevent such incidents.
"With the intense heat, the demand on our firefighters has increased significantly," Garg is quoted as saying. "We are responding to fires in residential areas, hospitals, and commercial buildings. Our teams are working around the clock to ensure the safety of the public,” he added.
The densely populated and commercially diverse area of Chandni Chowk in Delhi has been particularly susceptible to fires, with 61 incidents reported in the past 18 months. Firefighters face immense challenges in navigating the narrow lanes and old buildings, which are at constant risk of collapse during fire emergencies. The area’s combustible materials, such as paper, textiles, and plastics, exacerbate the spread of flames.
In a recent incident, a fire broke out in the neonatal ward of a children’s hospital in Vivek Vihar, Delhi, due to an electrical fault. The fire spread quickly, endangering the lives of newborn babies. The Delhi Fire Service, led by firefighter Rajesh Kumar, launched a rapid rescue operation. Despite the intense heat and smoke, firefighters managed to evacuate several babies and medical staff, containing the blaze within a few hours. Their heroic efforts prevented a larger catastrophe.
In Uttarakhand, where wildfires recently ravaged the hills, women firefighters played a crucial role in combating the blazes. The Uttarakhand Fire and Emergency Services have been on high alert, responding to numerous fire incidents. Their swift response in Bageshwar, where a forest fire threatened the district magistrate’s office, was remarkable. These women, despite the challenging terrain, have proven their strength and ability and are gradually breaking stereotypes in this traditionally male-dominated field.
Recalling a rescue mission where a car had plunged into a deep gorge, locals described how female firefighters swiftly created a path to the site, reaching the affected victims in minimal time despite the challenging terrain and early hours.
In Noida, Uttar Pradesh, the Noida Fire Department has been particularly active, responding to fires in industrial areas where the combination of high temperatures and flammable materials poses a significant risk. Fire Chief Arun Kumar Singh emphasised the importance of industrial safety protocols and regular inspections to prevent such incidents. The department has been working closely with local businesses to ensure compliance with safety standards, reducing the risk of fire outbreaks.
In Jaipur, Rajasthan, a fire broke out in a coaching centre located on the top floor of a commercial building in Jaipur’s Raja Park area. The fire was caused by a short circuit and spread quickly due to flammable materials in the building. Firefighters from the Jaipur Fire Brigade arrived within minutes, evacuating 30 students trapped inside and extinguishing the fire within two hours. Their quick and efficient response saved numerous lives and prevented further damage.
The rising cases has seen fire departments respond with alacrity, reforming and modernising the forces and taking efforts at citizens sensitisation and awareness. A notable case is from Bihar where under the leadership of Shoba Ohatker IPS, Director General-Cum-Commandant General Home Guard & Bihar Fire Service, the Department has intensified efforts in public awareness and education. Ohatker emphasised, "Our primary goal is to equip citizens with the knowledge and skills needed to respond swiftly and effectively during fire emergencies. We believe that education is the cornerstone of safety, and by providing comprehensive training and resources, we can empower individuals to take proactive measures in protecting themselves and their communities. Through initiatives like mock drills that simulate real-life scenarios, engaging street plays that convey important safety messages in an accessible way, and the widespread distribution of informative pamphlets, we aim to promote a culture of vigilance and preparedness across Bihar. It is our hope that these efforts will not only reduce the risk of fire-related incidents but also inspire a sense of responsibility and confidence in every citizen."
Ohatker has been steering a rare wave of reforms. She has brought about massive transformation - modernising the force with world-class fire-fighting equipment, infusing highest degree of professionalism with top-notch training for Home Guards and Fire officers, and bringing about a paradigm shift in the way the forces are perceived. Bihar has also become only 7th state in the country to have its own state-of-the-art Fire Training Academy.
In Hyderabad, Telangana, the Hyderabad Fire Services Department has been working in coordination with local authorities to tackle fires in residential and commercial buildings. Fire Chief N. Srinivas Reddy highlighted the importance of public awareness campaigns on fire safety, particularly during the summer months. The department has also been focusing on training programmes to enhance the skills of their firefighters in handling complex fire situations. Recently, a fire broke out in a high-rise residential apartment in the Banjara Hills area, caused by an electrical malfunction. The Hyderabad Fire Services Department responded promptly, evacuating residents and extinguishing the fire before it could spread to other floors.
Despite their heroic efforts, fire departments across India face significant challenges, including inadequate infrastructure and manpower. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has highlighted a severe deficiency in fire services, with an estimated shortfall of 96.28% in fire personnel. In response to these challenges, the Union Home Ministry launched the Scheme for Expansion and Modernisation of Fire Services last year, aiming to strengthen fire services at the state level.
The current heatwave has highlighted the critical issue of fire safety, prompting fire departments across India to work relentlessly to protect lives and property. Firefighters, both men and women, have shown remarkable dedication and courage. However, there is a pressing need to enhance infrastructure, increase staffing, and raise public awareness about fire safety to be better equipped for such extreme weather conditions in the future. /BI
