Opinion - Letters to the Editor   

Devastating fire

This refers to the report on the devastating fire in Burrabazar, Kolkata, and the absence of sufficient water to put it out. In Tamil Nadu, especially Chennai, there is an arrangement whereby about half a dozen Metro Water lorries are sent to the spot when a fire is reported. This ensures uninterrupted supply of water to fire tenders. Such an arrangement could be worked out all over India so that fire fighting operations are not hampered.

Loss of life and property is huge in fire accidents. It is time fire reforms were planned and the department modernised. It is essential to constitute a national fire commission to come up with recommendations for the country as a whole. Most fire departments are poorly funded and inadequately equipped. Further, fire prevention and awareness on safety are important. Awareness programmes should be conducted and fire safety taught to children in schools. Provisions contained in the National Building Code are not adhered to while constructing buildings, particularly public buildings and commercial complexes. The sad fact is that many are not even aware of it. It is time to give a statutory backing to it so that there are no violations.

S. Ramani,

Former Director, Fire Service, Tamil Nadu, Chennai

The fact that the fire which broke out two days ago is yet to be contained has once again exposed the vulnerability of our city market centres. The mandatory certificate issued by the Fire Service Department is nothing more than a ritual. No one seems to be bothered about the milling crowds on narrow lanes climbing the dark alleys called staircases in ill-planned trade centres. Access to buildings to move fire tenders at short notice, parking area, fire alarms, and adequate personnel to handle emergencies are hardly in place.

Rettavayal S. Krishnaswamy,

Chennai

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