Urban fires in India: Concept, Causes, Effects and Mitigation | UPSC

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Introduction

  • Northwest and central India, along with recording unusually high temperatures over the last couple of weeks, has also been reporting deadly fire accidents in buildings. The consecutive massive blazes in a gaming arena in Gujarat’s Rajkot and a hospital for newborns in Delhi last week claimed many lives and created an outrage among citizens since in both cases, the establishments were found to be flouting building and safety norms.

What is an Urban Fire?

  • Urban fire refers to any fire that occurs in an urban setting, encompassing residential, commercial, and industrial areas within cities and towns. These fires can have devastating effects on property, infrastructure, and human lives.
  • In 2022, 7,435 Indians perished in the 7,566 fire accidents recorded in the country, according to the Accidental Deaths & Suicides in India, 2022 — the latest of such reports released by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) on December 1, 2023. More than half of these fatalities were in residential / dwelling buildings.

Characteristics of Urban Fires:

  • High Population Density: Urban areas have a high concentration of people, which increases the potential for casualties and the complexity of evacuation procedures.
  • Complex Infrastructure: The dense and often vertical infrastructure in cities makes firefighting operations more challenging.
  • Economic Impact: Fires in urban areas can cause significant economic losses due to the high value of property and goods.
  • Environmental Impact: Urban fires contribute to air pollution and can cause long-term environmental damage.
  • Emergency Response: Urban fires require swift and efficient emergency response to minimize damage and loss of life.

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Common causes of Urban Fires in India

  • Fires in urban areas of India can be attributed to a variety of causes, often stemming from a combination of human negligence, infrastructural issues, and natural factors. Some the most common causes of urban fires in India are:

a) Electrical Short Circuits

  • Electrical short circuits are one of the leading causes of urban fires in India. Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, and the use of substandard electrical components often lead to overheating and sparks that can ignite fires. Many urban buildings, both residential and commercial, are old and may have outdated electrical systems that are not equipped to handle modern loads. Inadequate maintenance and improper installations further exacerbate the risk of electrical fires.

b) Gas Cylinder Explosions

  • Gas cylinder explosions are a significant cause of urban fires in India, particularly in residential areas and small businesses such as restaurants. Many households and eateries rely on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for cooking, and improper handling or faulty cylinders can lead to leaks and subsequent explosions. These incidents are often catastrophic, causing extensive damage and casualties.

c) Human Negligence

  • Human negligence plays a major role in the occurrence of urban fires. This includes activities such as leaving cooking unattended, improper disposal of cigarette butts, and careless use of candles or oil lamps. In densely populated urban settings, such acts of negligence can quickly escalate into large fires, affecting multiple dwellings and causing significant loss of life and property.

d) Industrial Accidents

  • Industrial accidents are another prevalent cause of urban fires, particularly in cities with a high concentration of factories and industrial plants. Mishandling of hazardous materials, inadequate safety measures, and malfunctioning machinery can lead to fires. Industrial areas often store large quantities of flammable substances, which can cause fires to spread rapidly and become difficult to control.

e) Fireworks and Festivities

  • Fireworks-related fires are common during festive seasons in India, especially during Diwali. Improper handling and storage of fireworks can lead to accidental ignitions that cause fires. Urban areas, with their crowded living conditions and close proximity of buildings, are particularly at risk during these times. Celebratory fires from fireworks can spread quickly, leading to extensive damage in densely packed neighborhoods.

f) Improper Waste Management

  • Improper waste management in urban areas contributes to fire risks. Accumulation of combustible materials such as paper, plastics, and other flammable waste in and around buildings can easily catch fire. Slums and market areas, where waste management practices are often inadequate, are especially vulnerable. Fires originating from waste dumps can quickly spread to nearby structures, causing significant damage.

g) Faulty Appliances and Equipment

  • The use of faulty or outdated appliances and equipment is a common cause of urban fires. Overheating, electrical faults, and mechanical failures in these devices can spark fires. In urban settings, where space is limited and multiple appliances are used simultaneously, the risk of such incidents increases. Regular maintenance and the use of quality equipment are essential to mitigate this risk.

Urban Fires in India and Climate Change

  • Global warming, driven by the increase in greenhouse gas emissions, has led to a significant rise in global temperatures. This warming has various direct and indirect impacts, including on the frequency and intensity of urban fires. Higher temperatures can exacerbate conditions conducive to fires, such as:

a) Drying of Vegetation:

  • Increased temperatures lead to the drying of vegetation in and around urban areas, creating a larger pool of combustible materials. In regions where green spaces and urban forests exist, the risk of fire increases as these areas become more susceptible to ignition.

b) Heatwaves:

  • Prolonged periods of extreme heat can lead to heatwaves, which dry out the environment and reduce humidity levels. These conditions make it easier for fires to start and spread rapidly. In India, heatwaves have become more frequent and intense, directly contributing to higher risks of urban fires.

c) Urban Heat Islands:

  • Cities often experience higher temperatures than surrounding areas due to the urban heat island effect. This phenomenon, where urban areas become significantly warmer than their rural surroundings due to human activities, can further increase the risk of fires. The concentration of heat in cities can dry out potential fuel sources and elevate fire risks.

d) Increased Energy Use:

  • Higher temperatures lead to increased use of air conditioning and cooling systems, which can overload electrical systems and increase the likelihood of electrical fires. The strain on infrastructure due to higher energy demands can lead to faults and short circuits.

By understanding these common causes of urban fires, measures can be taken to enhance fire safety and prevent such incidents in India’s rapidly urbanizing landscapes.

Provisions Regulating Urban Fires in India

  • India has a comprehensive set of laws, codes, and guidelines to regulate and mitigate urban fires. These regulations are enforced through various national and state-level agencies to ensure fire safety in urban areas. Key provisions include:

a) National Building Code of India (NBC)

  • The National Building Code (NBC) is a comprehensive set of guidelines covering all aspects of building construction and safety, including fire safety. It provides detailed guidelines on the design and construction of buildings to ensure fire safety. It includes provisions for fire prevention, life safety, fire protection, and firefighting services.

b) Fire Services Act

  • Each state in India has its own Fire Services Act that governs the establishment, management, and functioning of fire services within the state. State Fire Departments are responsible for enforcing fire safety regulations, conducting fire safety inspections, and responding to fire emergencies.

c) Factories Act, 1948

  • This Act mandates safety measures for factories, including fire safety. Specifies provisions for fire safety in factories, including the installation of firefighting equipment, fire exits, and regular fire drills.

d) Petroleum Act, 1934 and Gas Cylinder Rules, 2004

  • These laws regulate the storage, handling, and transportation of petroleum products and gas cylinders to prevent fire hazards. Entities dealing with petroleum products and gas cylinders must obtain licenses and adhere to strict safety measures to prevent fire incidents.

e) Explosives Act, 1884

  • Regulates the manufacture, possession, use, sale, and transport of explosives to ensure safety and prevent fire accidents.

f) Model Building Byelaws, 2016

  • These byelaws provide a framework for states and union territories to incorporate fire safety measures into local building regulations.

g) Disaster Management Act, 2005

  • Provides a legal framework for disaster management, including fire disasters. National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) is responsible for formulating policies, plans, and guidelines for disaster management, including fire safety.

h) Municipal Laws and Byelaws

  • Local municipal bodies have their own regulations and byelaws to ensure fire safety within their jurisdictions. Municipalities enforce fire safety norms as part of the building permission process.

i) Fire Safety Audits

  • Mandatory fire safety audits are conducted for high-rise buildings, commercial complexes, educational institutions, hospitals, and industrial units to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations.

Challenges related to Urban fire management in India

  • Urban fire management in India faces several significant challenges which hamper the effectiveness of fire prevention, response, and mitigation efforts. Here are the key problems:

a) Inadequate Infrastructure

  • Old and Congested Buildings: Many urban areas have old buildings with outdated electrical systems and congested layouts that increase the risk of fires and complicate firefighting efforts.
  • Insufficient Fire Stations: The number of fire stations is often insufficient to cover large urban areas, leading to delayed response times.
  • Poor Accessibility: Narrow roads, traffic congestion, and poorly planned urban layouts hinder the quick movement of fire engines and emergency services.

b) Lack of Compliance with Fire Safety Norms

  • Non-Adherence to Building Codes: Many buildings do not comply with the National Building Code or local fire safety regulations, often due to corruption or lack of enforcement.
  • Illegal Constructions: Unauthorized constructions and modifications without proper fire safety measures are common in many cities.
  • Inadequate Fire Safety Equipment: Many buildings lack essential fire safety equipment like alarms, extinguishers, and sprinklers, or have equipment that is not maintained.

c) Resource Constraints

  • Insufficient Manpower: Fire departments often face a shortage of trained personnel, which limits their ability to effectively respond to emergencies.
  • Outdated Equipment: Firefighting equipment and technologies are often outdated, which reduces the efficiency and effectiveness of fire services.
  • Limited Funding: Financial constraints limit the ability to modernize fire services, conduct regular training, and maintain equipment.

d) Public Awareness and Preparedness

  • Lack of Fire Safety Education: There is a general lack of awareness and education about fire safety measures among the public, leading to negligent behavior that can cause fires.
  • Insufficient Drills and Training: Regular fire drills and emergency preparedness training are not commonly conducted in many buildings and institutions.

e) Regulatory and Policy Challenges

  • Fragmented Regulations: The existence of multiple laws and guidelines can lead to confusion and inconsistent enforcement of fire safety norms.
  • Lack of Regular Audits: Fire safety audits are not conducted regularly, and even when they are, the findings are not always acted upon promptly.
  • Corruption and Lack of Accountability: Corruption and lack of accountability within regulatory bodies can lead to non-compliance and poor enforcement of fire safety standards.

f) Technological Limitations

  • Limited Use of Technology: Advanced technologies such as fire detection and suppression systems, GIS mapping for resource allocation, and modern firefighting tools are not widely adopted.
  • Data Management Issues: Lack of comprehensive data on fire incidents and response effectiveness hampers the ability to plan and implement better fire management strategies.

Improving urban fire management in India

  • Improving urban fire management in India requires a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach. It should include the modernization of infrastructure, stringent enforcement of regulations, adequate resource allocation, enhanced coordination, increased public awareness, and the adoption of advanced technologies. Here are the key steps to be taken:

a) Modernization of Infrastructure

  • Upgrading Building Codes: Regularly update the National Building Code and local regulations to incorporate the latest fire safety technologies and practices. Ensure new constructions and renovations strictly adhere to these standards.
  • Fire-Resistant Materials: Promote the use of fire-resistant materials in building construction and renovation projects.
  • Retrofitting Existing Buildings: Implement programs for retrofitting older buildings with modern fire safety systems, including alarms, sprinklers, and emergency exits.

b) Strict Enforcement of Regulations

  • Regular Inspections: Conduct regular fire safety inspections of residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Ensure compliance with fire safety norms and take strict action against violators.
  • Transparent Licensing: Ensure that all buildings, especially high-rises and industrial units, obtain and maintain valid fire safety licenses through a transparent and corruption-free process.
  • Accountability: Establish accountability mechanisms for regulatory bodies to ensure timely and effective enforcement of fire safety regulations.

c) Adequate Resource Allocation

  • Increase Funding: Allocate sufficient funds to fire departments for the procurement of modern firefighting equipment, vehicles, and protective gear.
  • Recruitment and Training: Recruit additional personnel for fire services and provide regular, advanced training to enhance their skills and preparedness.
  • Infrastructure Development: Establish more fire stations, especially in densely populated and high-risk areas, to reduce response times.

d) Enhanced Coordination and Communication

  • Inter-Agency Coordination: Foster better coordination between fire services, municipal bodies, disaster management authorities, and other relevant agencies through regular joint training exercises and communication protocols.
  • Integrated Command Centers: Set up integrated command centers equipped with modern communication systems to manage emergency responses efficiently.
  • Community Engagement: Involve local communities in fire safety planning and response through regular drills and awareness programs.

e) Public Awareness and Preparedness

  • Fire Safety Education: Launch nationwide fire safety education campaigns targeting schools, workplaces, and residential communities. Emphasize the importance of preventive measures and emergency response.
  • Regular Drills: Conduct regular fire drills in schools, offices, residential complexes, and industrial units to ensure that people know how to respond during an emergency.
  • First Responders: Train community members and local volunteers as first responders to provide immediate assistance before professional services arrive.

f) Adoption of Advanced Technologies

  • Smart Detection Systems: Promote the installation of smart fire detection and alarm systems that can provide early warnings and help in quick evacuation.
  • Data Analytics: Utilize data analytics to identify high-risk areas, analyze fire incident patterns, and plan resource allocation more effectively.
  • Drones and Robotics: Invest in drones and robotics for fire detection, monitoring, and firefighting, especially in hard-to-reach or hazardous areas.

g) Policy and Legislative Reforms

  • Unified Legislation: Develop a unified fire safety legislation that consolidates various existing laws and regulations, ensuring clarity and consistency.
  • Regular Audits: Mandate regular fire safety audits for all buildings, with stringent penalties for non-compliance.
  • Incentives for Compliance: Offer incentives such as tax benefits or insurance discounts for buildings and businesses that comply with fire safety regulations.

Conclusion

  • In conclusion, urban fires in India present multifaceted challenges stemming from high population density, congested infrastructure, inadequate fire safety measures, and environmental factors. These fires not only pose significant risks to lives and property but also impact public health and urban sustainability.
  • Efforts to mitigate urban fires require a holistic approach that encompasses modernizing infrastructure, enforcing stringent fire safety regulations, allocating adequate resources to fire services, enhancing coordination among agencies, and promoting public awareness and preparedness. Addressing these challenges is crucial for safeguarding urban communities, improving emergency response capabilities, and fostering resilient urban environments in India.
  • Moving forward, sustained commitment from government authorities, private stakeholders, and the community will be essential to effectively tackle the complex dynamics of urban fires. By prioritizing proactive measures and embracing technological advancements, India can mitigate the risks associated with urban fires and create safer and more sustainable urban spaces for its growing population.

 

Answer Writing Practice for UPSC Mains

Topic: Urbanization, their problems and their remedies (UPSC GS Mains Paper 1)

  • To what extent does climate change exacerbate the incidence and management challenges of urban fires in India, and what policy measures are necessary to mitigate these impacts effectively? (Answer in 250 words)

Model Answer

  • Global warming, driven by the increase in greenhouse gas emissions, has led to a significant rise in global temperatures. This warming has various direct and indirect impacts, including on the frequency and intensity of urban fires. Higher temperatures can exacerbate conditions conducive to fires, such as:

a) Drying of Vegetation:

  • Increased temperatures lead to the drying of vegetation in and around urban areas, creating a larger pool of combustible materials. In regions where green spaces and urban forests exist, the risk of fire increases as these areas become more susceptible to ignition.

b) Heatwaves:

  • Prolonged periods of extreme heat can lead to heatwaves, which dry out the environment and reduce humidity levels. These conditions make it easier for fires to start and spread rapidly. In India, heatwaves have become more frequent and intense, directly contributing to higher risks of urban fires.

c) Urban Heat Islands:

  • Cities often experience higher temperatures than surrounding areas due to the urban heat island effect. This phenomenon, where urban areas become significantly warmer than their rural surroundings due to human activities, can further increase the risk of fires. The concentration of heat in cities can dry out potential fuel sources and elevate fire risks.

d) Increased Energy Use:

  • Higher temperatures lead to increased use of air conditioning and cooling systems, which can overload electrical systems and increase the likelihood of electrical fires. The strain on infrastructure due to higher energy demands can lead to faults and short circuits.

Policy measures required to mitigate these impacts

To effectively mitigate these impacts, several policy measures are necessary:

  • Enhanced Urban Planning and Regulation: Strengthening building codes and land-use regulations to incorporate climate resilience and fire safety standards. Promoting green building practices and ensuring adequate spacing between structures to reduce fire spread.
  • Investment in Firefighting Infrastructure: Increasing funding for fire departments to upgrade equipment, vehicles, and training. Establishing more fire stations in vulnerable urban areas to improve response times and effectiveness during fire emergencies.
  • Public Awareness and Education: Launching campaigns to educate residents about fire safety practices, emergency evacuation procedures, and the importance of complying with building codes. Conducting regular fire drills in residential complexes, schools, and workplaces to enhance preparedness.
  • Integration of Climate Adaptation Strategies: Incorporating climate adaptation strategies into urban development plans, such as enhancing green spaces, implementing heat-resilient urban designs, and promoting sustainable water management practices.
  • By implementing these comprehensive policy measures, India can mitigate the exacerbating effects of climate change on urban fires, enhance resilience against future fire incidents, and safeguard urban communities and infrastructure effectively. This approach requires concerted efforts from government bodies, urban planners, community stakeholders, and the public to build sustainable and fire-safe cities amidst the challenges posed by climate change.

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