Delhi plans major overhaul of fire services to improve safety
The Delhi government will expand manpower, build new stations and mandate fire alarms in existing buildings to address operational challenges.
The Delhi government is planning a comprehensive revamp of the Delhi Fire Service (DFS) to strengthen emergency response and fire prevention, according to reports by Hindustan Times, The Tribune and Urban Acres.
Home Minister Ashish Sood announced the plan on Tuesday following a review meeting led by Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu at Lok Niwas. The measures aim to tackle issues such as high population density, traffic congestion, narrow lanes and electrical overloading.
The overhaul includes increasing the sanctioned strength of the DFS and speeding up the recruitment of firemen and station officers. This process will involve the Home Department, Services Department, Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and the Delhi Subordinate Services Selection Board (DSSSB).
To improve response times, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) will provide land for new fire stations, which the Public Works Department (PWD) will construct. The department also intends to upgrade its emergency communication system and procure specialised equipment through a memorandum of understanding with the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC).
The government is reviewing rules to require the installation of fire alarms and sprinkler systems in existing buildings, matching the standards for new constructions. Additionally, the DFS may amend rules to allow qualified private third-party auditors to perform fire safety audits.
Home Minister Sood, who also holds the power portfolio, stated that power distribution companies including BRPL, BYPL and TPDDL will be directed to upgrade network capacity to prevent electrical overloading. The plan also includes regular fitness assessments for fire operators and safety awareness campaigns in schools and markets.