Government buildings in Goa lack essential fire safety measures, raising alarm

by Featured NewsSafety

Fire safety concerns across Goa’s government buildings

As reported by The Goan, fire safety measures in Goa’s government buildings are critically lacking, with many facilities failing to comply with recommended safety protocols.

Notable locations such as the Secretariat, Ministerial Block, and the historic Raj Bhavan in Dona Paula have been identified as high-risk due to non-functional fire protection systems.

The situation is especially concerning given that the recent monsoon session of the Legislative Assembly took place in a building without operational fire safety measures.

The issue is not isolated to government offices; several heritage sites and public facilities also face similar risks.

The Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has yet to implement fire safety measures recommended by the Directorate of Fire & Emergency Services (DFES) in 2019.

Other key locations, including the Ravindra Bhavan in Sanquelim and the Goa Medical College in Bambolim, are also unprepared for potential fire emergencies, according to The Goan.

Risk extends to heritage and public buildings

In addition to government offices, various public buildings and heritage sites across Goa are also at risk due to non-compliance with fire safety norms.

The Basilica of Bom Jesus, where a significant religious event is scheduled in November, remains non-compliant with fire safety recommendations.

Despite being equipped with fire protection systems, many government-owned buildings have non-functional equipment.

The situation is similar in other important public facilities such as the Ravindra Bhavan at Sanquelim, Mathany Saldanha Administrative Complex in Margao, and the Goa Medical College in Bambolim.

These locations, along with others, are perilously unprepared for fire emergencies, further highlighting the state’s widespread negligence.

New buildings also face fire safety issues

Even newly constructed government buildings in Goa are not exempt from these safety lapses.

The 17 Hub Office Building for the Department of Information Technology in Panaji, for instance, has fire protection measures that are installed but non-functional.

This is indicative of a broader trend where both new and old facilities across the state fail to meet the necessary fire safety standards.

Other sites, such as the New Indoor Hall at Peddem Sports Complex, Community Health Centres at Valpoi and Sanquelim, and the Super Speciality Block at Goa Medical College in Bambolim, also face similar issues.

These facilities have seen their No Objection Certificates (NOCs) expire, leaving them at risk in the event of a fire.

Police Headquarters among over 100 sites non-compliant

The Goa Police Headquarters is another critical site operating without compliance with fire safety recommendations.

Senior officers continue to work in a building that has failed to meet fire safety standards since January 2017.

This location is just one of over a hundred sites in Goa that have yet to address essential fire safety requirements, posing a significant risk to both personnel and public safety.

These widespread lapses in fire safety measures across Goa underscore the urgent need for action to prevent potential disasters in both public and government-owned buildings.

Government buildings in Goa lack essential fire safety measures, raising alarm: Summary

Numerous government and public buildings across Goa, including the Secretariat, Ministerial Block, Raj Bhavan, and several heritage sites, are at significant risk due to non-functional or non-compliant fire safety systems.

The Directorate of Fire & Emergency Services had recommended safety measures as early as 2019, but many locations, including the UNESCO-listed Basilica of Bom Jesus, have yet to comply.

Newly constructed buildings also face similar issues, with fire protection systems installed but non-functional.

Over 100 sites, including the Goa Police Headquarters, remain non-compliant, raising serious concerns about the state’s preparedness for fire emergencies.

Free health and safety webinar hosted by NEBOSH in India

by Featured NewsTraining

Nebosh’s initiative to promote health and safety careers

“Being a health and safety professional is a rewarding career choice.”

Matt Powell-Howard, NEBOSH

NEBOSH, the National Examination Board for Occupational Safety and Health, is set to host a free webinar aimed at promoting careers in health and safety in India.

As reported by NEBOSH, this initiative comes in response to alarming statistics from the Ministry of Labour & Employment’s Directorate General Factory Advice Service & Labour Institutes (DGFASLI), which revealed that between 2017 and 2020, an average of three people died and 11 were injured daily in India’s registered factories.

The webinar, titled “Health and safety in India: discover a rewarding career,” will provide insights into starting a career in health and safety.

It is designed to help participants understand how they can positively impact workplace safety and health.

Details of the webinar

The webinar will be presented by NEBOSH’s Matt Powell-Howard and Steve McLaughlin.

They will be joined by guest speakers Shyam Susivrithan and Ajay Thakur, who are health and safety professionals from India.

Matt Powell-Howard highlighted the benefits of a career in this field, saying: “Being a health and safety professional is a rewarding career choice; you can work in almost any industry and any country, helping to keep people safe and healthy in the workplace.

“This webinar will be a great opportunity to find out more.”

Scheduled for Thursday, 11 July 2024, at 10 am UK time/3.30 pm India Standard Time, the webinar’s agenda includes the importance of health and safety, an overview of NEBOSH qualifications, and advice from current health and safety professionals.

How to participate in the webinar

Interested individuals can register for free at www.nebosh.org.uk/india-osh-webinar.

The webinar will also be available on-demand, allowing participants to view it at their convenience.

Additionally, attendees will have the option to download a certificate of attendance, adding a formal recognition to their participation.

The event is an excellent opportunity for those interested in pursuing a career in health and safety to gain valuable information and guidance from experienced professionals in the field.

NEBOSH unveils new landing page for India

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetySafety

NEBOSH launches India-specific landing page

NEBOSH has launched a dedicated India landing page to streamline the process of finding accredited Learning Partners in India.

This development aims to make it easier and quicker for individuals in India to locate and connect with NEBOSH-accredited Learning Partners.

The new ‘NEBOSH Learning Partners in India‘ page categorises Learning Partners into Bronze, Silver, and Gold tiers.

Each partner’s listing includes a direct link to their website, enabling users to contact them directly, view available study modes, and find out the partner’s location.

Extensive reach of NEBOSH qualifications in India

NEBOSH qualifications are delivered by accredited Learning Partners in over 140 countries.

In India, NEBOSH has a significant presence with Learning Partners located in various regions, including Kerala, Delhi, Cochin, and Hyderabad.

Each year, over 50,000 people take a NEBOSH qualification.

These qualifications are globally recognised and cater to individuals working in diverse industries such as oil and gas, construction, and travel and tourism.

Benefits for businesses and training providers

For businesses, demonstrating good health and safety provision can be advantageous in securing new business.

Many NEBOSH Learning Partners offer in-house training options, allowing employers to train multiple employees, teams, or even their entire organisation.

NEBOSH also provides an online verifications tool for employers to verify the qualifications held by new employees.

This tool is available for free on the NEBOSH website.

Training providers interested in delivering NEBOSH qualifications, as well as employers and aspiring OSH professionals, can find valuable information and resources in the NEBOSH Guidance section on the new landing page.

IFSJ Comment

The launch of NEBOSH’s dedicated India landing page marks a strategic move to enhance accessibility for individuals seeking NEBOSH qualifications in India.

This initiative is likely to simplify the process of finding suitable Learning Partners, thus fostering a more efficient learning experience.

The categorisation of Learning Partners into Bronze, Silver, and Gold tiers provides potential students with a clear understanding of the options available, tailored to their specific needs and preferences.

The inclusion of direct links to partner websites ensures that users can easily gather detailed information and make informed decisions about their education and training.

Furthermore, the online verifications tool adds an extra layer of reliability for employers, helping them validate the qualifications of prospective employees swiftly.

This tool, combined with the in-house training options, reflects NEBOSH’s commitment to supporting both individuals and organisations in their pursuit of health, safety, and environmental excellence.

Shankersinh Vaghela calls for separate fire safety commissionerate in Gujarat

by Safety

Vaghela appeals to Gujarat Governor for new fire safety system

In the wake of the Rajkot gaming zone fire, former Gujarat chief minister Shankersinh Vaghela has written to Governor Devvrat Acharya, urging the establishment of a separate commissionerate for fire safety and disaster management.

As reported by The Indian Express, Vaghela has also called for a transparent single-window online licensing authority system.

The appeal follows a devastating fire at an indoor gaming zone in Rajkot on May 25, which resulted in 28 fatalities and nine injuries.

Officials reported that the TRP gaming zone lacked the necessary fire department no-objection certificate.

Vaghela highlighted past incidents in Gujarat, such as the 2019 Surat fire that killed 22 children, the 2022 Morbi bridge collapse with 134 deaths, and the boat capsize in Harni lake last year that claimed 14 lives.

He criticised the state government’s response as “stereotypical assurances” and called for a people-oriented approach.

Recommendations for a single-window online system

Vaghela’s letter to the Governor detailed several recommendations aimed at improving safety measures.

He proposed a commissionerate with coordinated fire safety and disaster management, replacing the current fragmented system with a single-window online system under vigilant supervision.

Vaghela stated: “A commissionerate should be set up with fire safety and disaster management coordination.

“As licencing authority and clearances are with different local bodies, this should be replaced with a single-window online system under the supervision of vigilance officers.”

He also suggested standard safety norms for public places, including hospitals, colleges, schools, theatres, malls, gaming zones, water parks, construction sites, and commercial complexes, to be implemented by the state government at various administrative levels.

Call for legal action and public transparency

Vaghela’s letter also emphasised the need for strict legal action against corruption and negligence by government officers.

He recommended exemplary punishment for those responsible for such incidents, including government and private contractors.

Vaghela said: “An effective and transparent system should be created for places with larger footfall.

“There should be strict legal action against corruption and dereliction of duty by government officers for putting people’s lives at stake for financial gains.”

He proposed the creation of a public portal where citizens can verify compliance with government rules and access copies of necessary permissions for public places.

Criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s response

In his letter, Vaghela questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s reaction to the Rajkot incident.

He criticised Modi for not offering condolences during public rallies, despite his political career starting in Rajkot.

Vaghela stated: “Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s political career started from Rajkot as an elected MLA.

“Busy in the ongoing elections, he might have forgotten that he is a Gujarati.

“Governments will come and go, but how will you bring back lives? If you cannot give life, then how do you get the right to take it away?

“Instead of rubbing salt in the pain of victims’ families by putting out a tweet, if he, a moral responsibility, had said a few words of condolence in one or two public rallies, we would have thought he is our own PM.”

Frequent forest fires ravage parts of India due to prolonged dry conditions and human activities

by Featured NewsWildland Fire

Overview of the crisis in India’s forests

According to reports, Uttarakhand and Odisha have experienced severe forest fires, fuelled by high temperatures and prolonged dry spells.

The fires, aggravated by human activities such as agriculture and illegal burning for Mahua flower collection, pose a significant threat to the region’s biodiversity and air quality.

Data from the Forest Survey of India indicates that over half of India’s forests have been prone to such fires as of 2021, with most incidents linked to anthropogenic causes.

Swapnil Aniruddh, a forest official from Uttarakhand, highlighted the human factors contributing to these disasters: “Agriculture stubble burning, misconceptions, and burning of shrubs to shoo away wildlife are major reasons behind the forest fires.”

Current season’s alarming statistics and governmental efforts

This year has marked a stark increase in forest fires, particularly in Uttarakhand, where the government has recorded 653 incidents.

Advanced imaging radiometers have detected over 10,000 fire points in the state, indicating a widespread and ongoing crisis.

Efforts to combat these fires have included the Indian Air Force’s deployment of the ‘Bambi Bucket’ aerial firefighting technique, which involves collecting and dispersing water over affected areas.

The overall forest cover loss remains a major concern for India, especially as it seeks to reduce its climate-changing emissions significantly.

The Indian weather department has also issued warnings of an increased number of heat-wave days and longer dry spells for the region in the upcoming months.

Implications for regional climate and biodiversity

The recurrent forest fires not only threaten vast stretches of biodiversity-rich forests but also contribute to significant carbon emissions, complicating India’s climate goals.

The loss of forest cover could have long-term effects on the local climate, water cycles, and soil fertility, potentially altering the livelihoods of many communities dependent on these ecosystems.

The situation underscores the need for more robust fire management strategies and public awareness programs to prevent such large-scale environmental damage.

IFSJ Comment

The persistence of forest fires in Uttarakhand and Odisha is a stark reminder of the environmental and social challenges facing India.

As the country moves forward, integrating comprehensive fire management and prevention strategies will be essential to safeguard both its natural resources and the communities that depend on them.

This includes enhancing community awareness, improving fire detection and response systems, and fostering collaborative efforts between governmental bodies and local communities to manage and mitigate fire risks effectively.

Restaurant and hotel fire in Patna results in casualties and injuries

by Featured News

Overview of the incident

A major fire broke out in a restaurant and hotel complex in Patna, the capital of Bihar state, leading to the deaths of six individuals and injuries to twenty others.

The incident occurred on Thursday when a cooking gas cylinder exploded while patrons were dining, causing flames to rapidly spread to the adjacent hotel.

Firefighting teams promptly responded, rescuing at least 40 people from the engulfed buildings.

More than a dozen fire engines were deployed to control and eventually extinguish the fire.

Satya Prakash, a local fire officer, provided these details while highlighting the challenging conditions faced by the rescue teams due to the hotel’s location in a congested area near Patna’s railroad station.

Details of the fire and rescue operations

According to Officer Prakash, several vehicles parked near the hotel were completely destroyed.

The intensity of the fire forced some hotel guests to take drastic measures, including jumping from their room windows, which resulted in injuries.

The hotel and restaurant, situated in a tightly packed district, experienced rapid fire spread, complicating evacuation and rescue operations.

Firefighters had to navigate through the dense smoke and debris to reach and assist trapped individuals.

Context of fire safety in India

Fires are a frequent hazard in India, often exacerbated by the disregard for building laws and safety regulations.

This tragic event underscores the ongoing issues related to fire safety management in densely populated urban environments.

Past incidents, such as the 2019 fire in New Delhi caused by an electrical short circuit that killed 43 people, and another in 2022 killing 27, reflect a disturbing trend of devastating fires with significant casualties.

These events highlight the critical need for enhanced enforcement of safety codes and better fire prevention strategies across the country.

Surge in forest fire incidents across Odisha amid heatwave

by Featured NewsWildland Fire

Key details of the Odisha forest fire surge

With temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius across Odisha, a significant rise in forest fires has been recorded.

The Forest Survey of India data from Saturday revealed approximately 1,400 new wildfire points, marking a considerable increase in such incidents.

Notably, the most affected areas include Malkangiri, Koraput, Rayagada, Nuapada, Nabarangpur, Kalahandi, Balangir, Bargarh, and Kandhamal.

A significant number of these fires, around 117, were identified in the Baripada circle, part of which encompasses the Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR).

Fires were detected in multiple locations within the Similipal reserve forest and the surrounding Mayurbhanj reserve forest.

Response and resources mobilised for firefighting

In response to the surge, forest officials highlighted that fire protection squads have addressed nearly all the reported fire points.

The department has deployed substantial resources to combat the fires, including 370 fire protection squads and 330 fire fighting vehicles.

Additionally, about 4,800 blower machines have been distributed at the field level to enhance the firefighting capabilities during the ongoing forest fire season.

According to the officials: “The number of large fire points also increased significantly, rising from 107 to 127 within just 24 hours.

“This rapid increase necessitated immediate response and the comprehensive mobilisation of our firefighting resources.”

IFSJ comment

The recent escalation in forest fire incidents in Odisha serves as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by extreme weather conditions and their impact on natural environments.

The proactive measures taken by the Forest department, including the extensive deployment of fire protection squads and firefighting equipment, reflect a robust response to the crisis.

However, these events underscore the need for continued vigilance and preparedness to address the recurring threat of wildfires, particularly in the context of rising temperatures and climate change.

This situation highlights the ongoing need for strategic planning and resource allocation to mitigate the impact of such environmental challenges effectively.

Delhi High Court orders strict enforcement of fire safety norms

by Featured NewsSafety

Delhi HC insists on regular checks for fire safety violations

The Delhi High Court has mandated a more stringent observation of fire safety regulations. In a recent order, the court highlighted the necessity for the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and the Delhi Fire Services to perform regular inspections at Azad Market.

The aim is to pinpoint and address any infringements related to fire safety norms.

The directive emanated from a public interest litigation stressing the urgency for action against unauthorised and unsafe structures that pose a fire risk.

Compliance with fire rules to be thoroughly enforced

Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma, leading the bench, expressed the court’s stance on the matter: “However, this Court cannot turn a blind eye towards any potential violations of Fire Norms, accordingly the MCD and the Delhi Fire Services are directed to ensure scrupulous and rigorous enforcement of the Fire Norms pertaining to premises specified under Rule 27 of the Delhi Fire Rules.”

This response is rooted in concerns raised by the Azad Market Residents Welfare Association, which noted fire incidents and resultant casualties due to non-compliant building practices.

The court’s strategy involves systematic monitoring and strict enforcement to prevent future incidents.

It was stated: “In this regard, the MCD shall endeavour to conduct regular monitoring of the Subject Area to ensure that persons found violating the Fire Norms are promptly identified and referred to the Fire Prevention Wing under Rule 34 of the Delhi Fire Rules.”

Remedial action for unauthorised constructions

When encountering isolated cases of unauthorized and illegal constructions, the court advised stakeholders to report to the Centre’s Special Task Force.

This body is charged with investigating and taking necessary actions against illicit construction and encroachments.

The court clarified: “We dispose of the present petition, with liberty to the Petitioner to approach the STF if the need so arises.”

IFSJ Comment

The Delhi High Court’s directive to enforce fire safety norms vigilantly is a clear signal to businesses and residents in the region about the seriousness of adherence to safety regulations.

The move to conduct regular checks and the empowerment of the Special Task Force underscore the proactive measures being taken to mitigate fire hazards.

As fires remain a perennial concern in densely populated areas, the systematic approach to identifying and correcting violations is a critical step in enhancing urban safety.

Such legal precedents also serve as a framework for other cities grappling with similar challenges, promoting a culture of compliance and prevention that can significantly reduce the risk and impact of fire-related incidents.

Fire safety violations prompt action against 243 rooftop restaurants in Bengaluru

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsSafety

In a recent development, the Fire and Emergency Services Department has identified 243 rooftop establishments, inclusive of pubs, bars, and hookah bars, in Bengaluru that have transgressed fire safety regulations and licensing stipulations. Details of this have been reported by The Hindu.

Details of the violations

The Fire Department embarked on an inspection spree of such eateries on October 19.

This action came a day after a blaze at the Mudpipe cafe located on the fourth floor of a building near the Forum Mall in Koramangala.

The investigation exposed that the establishment hadn’t procured a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Fire Department.

In addition, it was in breach of the terms set by the trade license extended by the civic authority.

Contrary to the provisions of the permit, which allowed only food catering, the cafe was also offering hookah services.

Response from the officials

A senior fire officer remarked to The Hindu: “After conducting a survey of the rooftop establishments across the city, we have found 243 restaurants violating fire safety rules and other norms.

“As these establishments should be dealt with stringent action, the list has been shared with the BBMP.”

Additionally, it was shared that the list was communicated to BBMP Chief Commissioner Tushar Giri Nath, who in response, passed it on to the Chief Engineer.

The latter will consequently relay the particulars to the pertinent authorities to undertake remedial measures.

Moreover, a senior health official noted the Health Department’s anticipation of receiving the information.

Once obtained, the department will implement necessary actions.

Concurrently, the BBMP has been proactively administering its corrective initiatives. K.V. Trilok Chandra, the BBMP Special Commissioner, mentioned the possibility of overlapping data related to the flagged establishments and those previously identified by the BBMP.

“We will go through the list to avoid any overlap,” he declared.

Historical context of the fire safety violations

According to the BBMP’s records, the civic body has already shut down 60 establishments, encompassing pubs, hotels, and rooftop cafes. They have also issued more than 200 notices.

Post the health department acquiring this novel list, a separate crackdown on offending rooftop venues might be launched.

Notably, a previous clampdown on rooftop restaurants occurred in 2018, following the tragic December 2017 Kamala Mills Fire in Mumbai where 14 individuals lost their lives.

Even though stringent measures were undertaken post this tragedy, the recent fire incident in Koramangala underscores the persistent challenge.

IFSJ Comment

The safety of the public in hospitality venues remains paramount.

The repeated incidents of fire, especially in rooftop establishments, highlight the critical need for stringent fire safety measures.

While previous efforts have been made to address these concerns, the recent revelations indicate that more rigorous, consistent, and comprehensive actions are essential.

Ensuring strict adherence to safety norms is not just about following rules, but about safeguarding lives.

Fire safety measures to be implemented in Kerala’s waste collection centres

by Featured NewsWaste & Recycling

In a proactive move, the Local Self Government Department (LSGD) of Kerala has announced its decision to install fire safety devices in all Material Collection Facilities (MCFs) throughout the region.

This decision comes in response to recent fire incidents at several waste management facilities in the state.

The commitment to this initiative was confirmed during a significant meeting in Thiruvananthapuram.

LSGD meeting highlights need for fire safety in Kerala

During the high-level meeting, Sarada Muraleedharan, Additional Chief Secretary, LSGD, stated: “LSGD would take immediate steps to address the issue of fire mishaps that occurred recently in some of these facilities.”

The meeting, attended by Joint Directors of the LSGD from all districts and other senior officials, focussed on ensuring that the correct fire safety protocols are established at all MCFs and waste storage facilities.

Muraleedharan also brought up the idea of placing CCTV cameras in MCFs prone to foul play.

Moreover, she urged the District Collectors to intensify 24/7 patrolling by police and other enforcement agencies to enhance surveillance.

Increased waste challenges Kerala facilities

A significant point raised during the meeting was the “Malinya Muktham Nava Keralam” campaign’s impact.

Since its initiation, there’s been a notable surge in the amount of waste directed to the storage facilities.

This growth has emphasised the need for a proportional rise in waste removal frequency to deter its piling up at MCFs.

In line with this, the Clean Kerala Company, responsible for removing garbage from the MCFs, received instructions to guarantee prompt waste clearance, ensuring no excessive waste accumulation at these sites.

IFSJ Comment

The decision by the LSGD of Kerala is a commendable step towards ensuring the safety of its waste management facilities.

The recent fire incidents at several sites highlighted a critical gap in fire safety measures.

Addressing this issue proactively not only safeguards infrastructure but, more crucially, protects the lives of countless individuals working in and around these facilities.

Such actions by authorities set a precedent for other regions to follow, reinforcing the paramount importance of fire safety in all sectors.