Fire and smoke: Structures in congested cities must be made fire-safety compliant, Pg6

A deadly hotel fire in Kolkata’s congested Burrabazar area killed 14 people and injured 13, exposing gaps in urban fire safety and emergency response.

• The six-storey building had only one staircase and no alternate escape routes, violating fire safety norms.

• Similar recent incident occurred in Ajmer, where four people died in a fire in a historic town.

• The recurring nature of such tragedies highlights systemic failures in safety infrastructure and governance in congested cities.

Urban Fire Hazards

• Asphyxiation due to smoke was a primary cause of death in both incidents, a typical outcome in high-density urban fire events.

• Fire engines had trouble reaching the scene due to narrow lanes and congested access, a recurring urban planning failure.

• Non-compliant building designs (lack of fire exits, staircases, evacuation plans) aggravated the disasters.

Pattern of Neglect

• Kolkata has witnessed multiple fatal fires in the last decade, notably the 2011 AMRI hospital fire (89 deaths).

• Repeated incidents underscore poor adherence to fire safety laws, despite prior tragedies prompting promises of reform.

Systemic Gaps

• Many inner-city structures were built using flammable materials and have not undergone structural retrofitting.

• Lack of redevelopment in old urban areas contrasts with cities that have upgraded post-independence planning zones.

• Poor ventilation, escape provisions, and narrow sidewalks make fire response ineffective.

Scientific/Technical Concepts Involved:

• Fire Load: The amount of combustible material present in a building.

• Smoke Inhalation: A leading cause of death in structural fires due to carbon monoxide and toxic gases.

• Retrofitting: Upgrading existing structures with modern safety features, including fire-retardant materials.

Significance:

• Urban fire incidents reflect broader governance lapses in urban safety audits, building code enforcement, and disaster preparedness.

• Cities like Kolkata must prioritize urban renewal, ensure strict compliance with the National Building Code, and strengthen fire service capabilities.

Mains Mock Question:

"Urban fire hazards in Indian cities are not just accidents but governance failures. Critically examine the systemic issues and suggest policy-level interventions."