Fire incidents surge despite safety awareness programs, locals call for better preparedness

Srinagar, Nov 12: The Fire and Emergency Department in Kashmir has been conducting awareness programs in schools, colleges, villages, and towns to promote fire safety. However, incidents of fire continue to rise in the valley, particularly in Srinagar, prompting locals to question the effectiveness of these programs.
In the last three years, fire incidents in Kashmir have seen a troubling rise. Official data indicates that the valley witnessed 1,654 fire incidents in 2021, 1,982 in 2022, and a significant jump to 2,310 cases in 2023. Srinagar has emerged as one of the most affected areas, with frequent fires causing widespread damage.
Some residents have expressed frustration over the Fire Department’s response and methods. Manzoor Ahmed, a resident of Batamaloo in Srinagar, argued that the department’s approach has not kept pace with current needs. “If a fire doesn’t cause major damage, it’s often luck more than intervention. The department is still using traditional methods, like gas cylinders and cloth wrapping, which aren’t effective in controlling the flames quickly,” he said.
Ahmed suggested that the department adopt newer, more practical techniques and improve on-the-ground response times, as fires in Srinagar often inflict major damage before emergency vehicles arrive.
In response, Aqib Hussain Mir, Deputy Director of the Fire and Emergency Department in Srinagar, defended the department’s efforts. He explained that while they conduct training sessions at educational institutions, it is not feasible to reach every individual directly. “It’s the responsibility of those trained to pass on their knowledge and share fire safety practices with others,” Mir said.
He also pointed out that new constructions often lack basic fire safety provisions. “People spend substantial sums on buildings but neglect fire exits and extinguishers, which cost only a few thousand rupees,” he noted.
Mir further added that some measures, if adopted by the public, could prevent fires from escalating. He recalled a recent incident at a Srinagar mall where locals, trained by the department, managed to contain the flames before the fire department arrived. Without their intervention, he said, the damage could have been far worse.
However, Mir acknowledged limitations, stating that the department lacks authority to inspect buildings for fire safety compliance. “The responsibility lies with the people. They must practice what they are taught and share this knowledge with others to ensure quick action when fires occur,” he remarked.
The department urges residents to adopt basic fire safety practices, as prompt action can help prevent minor fires from turning into major losses across the Kashmir Valley.