Identifying Gaps and Needs to Enhance Fire Safety in India

Fire is always one of the major disasters that threaten life, structure, property, and the environment. In India where most of the urban areas are densely packed and heavily populated, fire poses a significant challenge and greater risk to buildings and lives. Fire incidents have become a regular occurrence in the country, which has led to massive financial damage and fatalities. The analysis of fire safety in the country through this study brings to light those policies and systems related to fire services in India that need further strengthening.

The status of fire accidents in India based on the available data and the analysis of recent fire incidents, therefore, justifies the need for an in-depth study of the whole issue related to fire prevention and safety in the country Hence, this knowledge paper developed by CUTS International with the support of APCO Worldwide India Private Limited attempts to identify the gaps and highlight the challenges from a national perspective. It points out best practices within the country and across the globe that our policymakers can rely upon.

The paper focused extensively on secondary data relevant to fire accidents in India and around the world largely relying upon government data, official documents, internet articles, newspapers, investigation papers, other reports and round-table discussions with experts and professionals. Hence, this paper would hopefully be helpful to policymakers within the government and other related stakeholders and help them strengthen the existing fire prevention policies and enforcement.