Telangana reports two to three fire incidents daily; experts call for strict measures

Hyderabad: Fire accidents have become a critical concern, with cases increasing in recent years. In Telangana alone, the number of fire incidents rose from 6,789 in 2021 to 7,600 in 2024, with 2,500 incidents reported in Hyderabad. By February 10, 2025, 50 fire accidents had already been recorded, indicating that an average of 2-3 incidents occur daily.

“Negligence in fire safety leads to heavy losses, both in terms of property and human lives,” warns Suresh Kumar Singhal, President of FTCCI. He emphasizes that industries and residential societies must prioritize fire prevention measures to avoid devastating consequences.

Regulatory Framework and Compliance

Fire safety is governed by various laws and codes, including the Telangana Fire Service Act 1999 and the National Building Code (NBC) 2016.

Key Regulations Under the Telangana Fire Service Act

1. No Objection Certificate (NOC) Requirement

• Buildings above 15 meters (commercial) and 18 meters (residential) must obtain an NOC from the Fire Department.

• Public places such as schools, cinemas, and religious sites above 500 sq. meters also require clearance.

2. Owner’s Liability for Fire Safety (Section 19)

• Property owners must install fire safety systems and maintain them.

• Tampering or removing fire safety equipment is prohibited.

3. Inspection and Enforcement (Sections 21 & 22)

• The Fire Department inspects buildings for compliance.

• Notices are issued for non-compliance, and failure to act can lead to penalties or legal action.

“Strict adherence to fire safety norms is not just a legal obligation but a moral responsibility,” states R. Ravi Kumar, an expert in industrial fire safety.

Challenges in Fire Safety Implementation

Despite clear regulations, implementation gaps remain a challenge:

• Slow Response in Rural Areas: While fire tenders reach urban locations within 10 minutes, rural areas face delays due to limited infrastructure.

• Electrical Short Circuits: A leading cause of industrial and residential fires, often due to poor wiring and overloading.

• High-Rise Fire Hazards: Buildings lack proper fire exits, smoke control systems, and trained personnel to handle emergencies.

Strengthening Telangana’s Fire Safety Measures

Fire Department’s Preparedness and Equipment

The Telangana Fire Department has significantly upgraded its fleet with 693 fire-fighting vehicles, including:

• Bronto Sky Lifts for high-rise rescue operations.

• Hazmat Vehicles for chemical and hazardous fires.

• Specialized Rescue Tenders for road accidents and building collapses.

• Mist Jeeps and Bullets for maneuvering through congested lanes.

“Every minute counts in a fire emergency. The moment a call is received, our first vehicle is dispatched within one minute,” assures Y. Nagi Reddy, IPS, Director General, Telangana Fire, Disaster Response, and Emergency Services.

Ensuring a Safer Hyderabad

To make Hyderabad a globally safe city, experts suggest:

• Stricter fire safety compliance in industries and residential complexes.

• Mandatory fire drills in apartments and commercial buildings.

• Regular electrical safety audits to prevent short circuits.

• Encouraging smart fire safety solutions, including AI-driven early warning systems.

“With rapid urbanization, fire risks have multiplied. Implementing fire safety at the planning stage itself can save lives and property,” explains V. Srinivas, CEO of Synergy Infra Consultants Pvt Ltd.

Emergency Response: What To Do During a Fire?

1. Use a fire extinguisher, water, or sand to put out small fires.

2. Evacuate immediately and call emergency numbers:

• 101 (Fire Department)

• 100 (Police)

• 112 (National Emergency Helpline)

• 108 (Health Emergency)

3. Do not use elevators; take the stairs.

4. Cover your nose and mouth with a damp cloth to avoid smoke inhalation.

Conclusion

“Fire safety is not an option but a necessity. With industries and residential complexes expanding rapidly, prevention, preparedness, and quick response are essential to reduce fire-related losses. A proactive approach can save lives, and that should always be the priority,” says Y. Nagi Reddy.

As Telangana continues its journey toward urban and industrial growth, ensuring robust fire safety infrastructure will play a key role in securing lives and property.