Chandigarh, November 2:- In view of Diwali celebrations on November 8, Municipal Corporation Chandigarh has stepped up its fire safety preparedness, with MC Commissioner Sh. Amit Kumar, IAS, directing Fire & Rescue Services to maintain heightened vigilance and ensure round-the-clock operational readiness across the city.

The Commissioner reviewed the department's preparedness through a meeting with the Joint Commissioner-cum-Chief Fire Officer Sh. Balbir Raj Singh, Superintendent (Fire) and all Station Fire Officers, emphasising comprehensive arrangements to prevent fire incidents and ensure a prompt response to emergencies during the festive period.

During the meeting, all Station Fire Officers were directed to ensure the availability of adequate firefighting personnel, fully functional fire tenders, firefighting equipment and sufficient water resources. Special emphasis was laid on maintaining uninterrupted readiness and ensuring that emergency calls are attended to without delay.

The Commissioner directed special fire safety inspections of busy markets, temporary firecracker sale sites, scrap dealers and other vulnerable locations to identify and eliminate potential fire hazards. He also instructed officers to strategically deploy fire tenders and CAF-mounted Bullet Motorcycles at identified sensitive locations to facilitate quick access and an effective emergency response.

As part of the public safety initiative, fire awareness campaigns will be conducted in coordination with Residents Welfare Associations, Market Welfare Associations, temporary firecracker site holders and other stakeholders. Flag marches will also be organised in respective fire station jurisdictions to showcase the preparedness of Fire & Rescue Services and reassure citizens about emergency response arrangements.

Emphasising inter-departmental coordination, Sh. Amit Kumar directed officers to maintain close coordination with Chandigarh Police, Traffic Police, ERSS Control Room and other concerned agencies to ensure obstruction-free movement of emergency vehicles and seamless handling of any untoward incident.

The Commissioner called upon all fire personnel to remain alert, disciplined and fully committed to their responsibilities throughout the festive period. He emphasised that proactive inspections, public awareness and coordinated emergency response would be key to ensuring a safe and fire-free Diwali in Chandigarh.