Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 3 Nov: Extensive fire safety arrangements have been put in place across Dehradun district to prevent fire incidents during the Diwali festival and to ensure an effective response to any emergency situation. Acting on the directions of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, the Fire and Emergency Services Department has coordinated with the Jal Sansthan to arrange water tankers at 41 locations across the district. In addition, fire tankers will remain stationed at 23 important and sensitive locations in the city to ensure that relief and rescue operations can begin immediately in the event of a fire.
Chief Fire Officer Abhinav Tyagi informed the media that fire hydrants installed across the district are being regularly monitored and inspected. At present, more than 90 per cent of the fire hydrants are functional, while efforts are underway to repair and restore the remaining ones at the earliest. He said that to further strengthen fire safety arrangements during Diwali, fire stations under every tehsil are conducting patrols with fire-fighting vehicles three times a day in markets and other crowded areas. The objective is to maintain continuous surveillance in sensitive locations and ensure swift action in case of any emergency.
Tyagi further claimed that the Fire Services Department is also carrying out awareness campaigns among the public and traders regarding fire safety measures. Traders have been advised to exercise special caution while using electrical equipment and managing power loads. They have been urged not to exceed the sanctioned electrical load and to ensure the safe use of electrical connections and appliances. They have also been asked to strictly comply with prescribed fire safety norms in shops and commercial establishments.
The department has also appealed to the traders to help maintain smooth traffic movement in market areas and ensure adequate space is available for the movement of fire-fighting vehicles. According to the department, public cooperation, vigilance and timely precautions can significantly reduce the risk of fire incidents. Fire and Emergency Services teams will remain on high alert throughout the festive period to ensure uninterrupted and effective fire-fighting services across the district during Diwali.
