In 2024, India witnessed a sharp rise in fire-related emergencies, with the Delhi Fire Service reporting 37% increase in fire-related calls as compared to previous years. A series of tragic incidents, including fires at a gaming zone in Rajkot, a firecracker factory in Harda, and a newborn baby care hospital in New Delhi, showcased the glaring inadequacies in the fire safety framework. These incidents have not only shaken public confidence but also revealed the critical need to address electrical fire hazards, which remain a leading cause of such disasters.
In Mumbai, nearly 70% of fire outbreaks are attributed to faulty electrical systems in buildings. The problem stems from the widespread use of substandard electrical materials, poorly maintained infrastructure, and outdated systems. Issues like subpar wiring, overloaded circuits, and inadequate insulation lead to short circuits and devastating fires.
With this alarming backdrop, it is crucial to examine India’s existing fire safety regulations and explore how they can be strengthened to prevent such tragedies.
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What do Current Fire Safety Regulations Say?
India’s fire safety regulations are primarily guided by the National Building Code (NBC), which provides comprehensive guidelines for fire prevention, life safety, and fire protection measures in buildings. It mandates the installation of fire detection systems, alarm systems, sprinkler systems, and fire extinguishers in all high-rise buildings, commercial complexes, and public spaces. Local building bylaws, formulated by states, are often expected to incorporate these provisions to address region-specific needs.
In addition to the NBC, the Electricity Act, 2003, and the Central Electricity Authority (Measures Relating to Safety and Electric Supply) Regulations, 2010, emphasize electrical safety to minimize the risk of fires caused by faulty wiring or electrical systems. The Maharashtra government recently introduced a fire safety bill that requires high-rise buildings with 22 floors or more to appoint dedicated fire safety officers and supervisors. Furthermore, residential and industrial establishments involved in hazardous activities are now mandated to adopt Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled fire safety mechanisms for enhanced protection.
Implementation and Policy Gaps
While India has a robust framework for fire safety, significant gaps in policy enforcement and implementation undermine its effectiveness. Fire audits, meant to ensure compliance, are often conducted irregularly or superficially, leaving many buildings vulnerable to potential hazards. The lack of a standardized mechanism to monitor and upgrade aging electrical infrastructure further exacerbates the risk of electrical fires. Additionally, the use of substandard materials, inadequate maintenance, and insufficient training for fire safety personnel are common issues that compromise safety standards.
Addressing the Gap
To address these gaps, India needs a comprehensive overhaul of its fire safety framework with a stronger emphasis on electrical safety. Mandatory periodic electrical inspections by certified professionals should be enforced across all residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Building codes must mandate the use of fire-resistant wiring, advanced circuit breakers, and modern electrical systems that minimize the risk of overload and short circuits. Training programs for electricians and facility managers on fire safety best practices can significantly improve compliance at the ground level. Moreover, state fire departments must be equipped with advanced firefighting equipment and trained personnel to handle electrical fires, which require specialized techniques.
Public awareness campaigns also play a pivotal role in fostering a culture of safety. People must be educated about the dangers of substandard electrical materials, benefits of quality wires and cables and the importance of adhering to safety protocols. Incentivizing property owners to adopt fire safety measures through insurance benefits or tax rebates can further encourage compliance. Additionally, leveraging technology, such as IoT-enabled sensors that detect electrical faults and potential fire hazards, can offer real-time monitoring and prevent disasters before they occur.
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Building a Safer Future
Looking ahead, India’s rapid urbanization and industrial growth make it imperative to prioritize fire safety as an important component of sustainable development. Stricter regulations, better enforcement, and a collective commitment to safety can help prevent tragedies. By addressing the root causes of fire accidents, particularly electrical safety lapses, India can protect lives, safeguard property, and build public trust in its fire safety systems. The time to act is now—because the cost of inaction is measured in lives lost and communities devastated.
