Srinagar, Oct 23 (KINS):The Office of the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, has issued stringent circular instructions to all Deputy Commissioners across the Kashmir Division, stressing the need for heightened fire safety measures ahead of the winter season. The directive comes in the wake of repeated fire incidents causing loss of life and property, primarily due to electrical short circuits, unsafe use of heating appliances, and improper storage of combustible materials.
Divisional Commissioner Anshul Garg, IAS, highlighted that a proactive approach is essential to prevent fire-related tragedies. The circular mandates the formulation of District-Level Winter Fire Safety Plans in coordination with Fire & Emergency Services, PDD, PHE, health authorities, municipal bodies, and panchayats. Each district is also to designate a Nodal Officer for overseeing fire prevention efforts.
Among the measures prescribed, officials have been asked to conduct intensive public awareness campaigns on safe handling of electrical and heating appliances, LPG usage, and general fire safety. Power Development Department (PDD) teams are to carry out random inspections of residential and commercial wiring, especially in high-risk and congested urban areas.
Additionally, the directive emphasizes fire safety audits of government offices, schools, hospitals, markets, and residential clusters, with strict timelines for rectifying any deficiencies. Authorities have been instructed to monitor the storage of combustible materials such as dry grass, firewood, and LPG cylinders, and ensure Hamam and gas heater safety, particularly by removing LPG cylinders from bedrooms at night.
Municipal committees, panchayats, and urban local bodies have been tasked with maintaining unobstructed fire lanes, functional hydrants, and access to emergency water sources. District disaster management preparedness, including the availability of fire tenders and quick response teams in snow-bound areas, will also be reviewed.
Deputy Commissioners are required to submit monthly reports on fire incidents, preventive actions, and awareness initiatives, with strict enforcement expected to ensure zero tolerance for negligence in fire safety.(KINS)
