Assam has endured significant property damage exceeding Rs 1000 crore over the last six years due to over 20,000 reported fire incidents. Kamrup (Metro) has emerged as the worst-affected district, accounting for over 17% of these incidents, with 3,248 cases reported. Electrical malfunctions are the primary cause of these fires, which have claimed 78 lives, including 13 children
In 2019 alone, there were 3,993 fire outbreaks across the state, resulting in damages exceeding Rs 225 crore. The subsequent years saw losses amounting to Rs 103 crore in 2020, Rs 102 crore in 2021, Rs 157 crore in 2022, Rs 169 crore in 2023, and approximately Rs 94 crore till April 2024. These alarming statistics highlight the growing concern among citizens and the need for immediate action.
THE INCREASING RISK OF FIRE INCIDENTS
Day-to-day increases in fire incidents have raised alarm among citizens. Various factors contribute to these unfortunate events, including:
- Negligence: Careless behavior such as improper disposal of flammable materials, unattended cooking, and electrical faults often lead to preventable fires.
- Poor Enforcement of Safety Measures: Inadequate implementation of fire safety regulations and building codes has left many structures vulnerable to fire hazards.
- Outdated Fire Services: Many fire departments suffer from a lack of modern equipment and training, hindering their ability to respond effectively to emergencies.
THE NEED FOR COMPREHENSIVE ACTION
To mitigate the risk and ensure public safety, it is imperative to take comprehensive action in several key areas:
- Strengthening Regulations and Enforcement: Authorities must enforce stringent fire safety regulations and ensure regular inspections of buildings, particularly high-risk structures like residential complexes, commercial buildings, and industrial sites.
- Enhancing Public Awareness: Public education campaigns on fire prevention and safety can significantly reduce incidents caused by negligence. Simple actions like proper use of electrical appliances and safe cooking practices can make a big difference.
- Modernizing Fire Services: Investing in modern firefighting equipment, advanced training for firefighters, and improving infrastructure can enhance the effectiveness of fire services. This includes updating communication systems for better coordination during emergencies.
- Community Engagement: Encouraging community participation in fire safety programs and emergency response drills can foster a culture of preparedness and collective responsibility.
