Authorities ramp up safety measures amid rising fire outbreaks in Srinagar

Srinagar, Feb 27: Amid a worrying rise in fire incidents across Srinagar, the Fire and Emergency Services (F&ES) Department has intensified efforts to enhance fire safety measures. Plans are underway to procure additional firefighting equipment, including personal protective gear, gas detectors, and breathing masks, to strengthen emergency response capabilities.
The move comes as fire outbreaks continue to increase, particularly in densely populated areas. Official data reveals that between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2023, the department responded to 26,354 fire incidents, leading to 486 deaths and 510 injuries. The fires caused property damage worth Rs 1,362.38 lakh, though response efforts helped save assets valued at Rs 18,929 lakh. In 2023 alone, 4,451 fire calls were recorded, leading to 19 deaths, while in 2024, 720 fire incidents were documented, raising concerns among residents and authorities regarding fire safety preparedness.
Recent fire outbreaks in Rajbagh and Eidgah have further amplified these concerns, displacing multiple families and causing significant property damage. Witnesses reported that the fires spread rapidly due to closely packed wooden structures, making evacuation difficult and increasing the risk of casualties. Firefighters also faced challenges navigating the city’s narrow lanes, which delayed response times and highlighted infrastructural shortcomings in Srinagar’s fire preparedness.
These incidents underscore the urgent need for improved fire safety measures, particularly in congested neighborhoods where wooden structures and narrow lanes heighten the risk. Residents are now calling for stricter fire safety regulations, including mandatory fire extinguishers in homes and regular safety inspections. “We have witnessed multiple fire incidents recently, causing significant property damage. Fires spread rapidly due to the construction style here,” said Hilal Ahmad, a resident of Nowhatta.
Echoing these concerns, Basharat, a resident of Habba Kadal, stressed the need for immediate action. “We need immediate intervention before another disaster strikes,” he said.
According to Mir Aqib Hussain, Assistant Director of F&ES, nearly 90% of fire incidents result from electrical short circuits, often due to overloading. “We urge residents to conduct regular electrical audits, avoid overloading appliances, and keep fire extinguishers at home,” he stated. To strengthen firefighting capabilities, the department is in the process of acquiring essential equipment, which is expected to arrive by the end of the fiscal year. “These resources will significantly enhance our ability to respond effectively to emergencies,” Hussain added.
Recognizing the challenges posed by Srinagar’s congested areas, the department is also exploring ways to improve response times and accessibility. The city operates a fleet of 60 fire tenders, all undergoing routine maintenance to ensure they remain fully operational. Officials stress that keeping these vehicles in top condition is crucial, as rapid response times can make the difference in mitigating fire-related disasters.
In addition to equipment upgrades, authorities have ramped up awareness campaigns to educate the public on fire safety. “We have planned at least 60 to 80 awareness programs in the coming months to help prevent such incidents,” Hussain said.
While these efforts mark a step in the right direction, lasting change will require continuous vigilance, stricter enforcement of safety norms, and active community participation. Without these measures, firefighting efforts will remain reactive rather than preventive, leaving Srinagar vulnerable to recurring disasters.