Pune: Fire departments of PMC and PCMC have ramped up efforts to prevent fire incidents during Diwali, drawing crucial lessons from previous years. Last Diwali alone, Pune city reported 60 fire incidents, stemming from seemingly minor causes like stray rockets igniting balcony clotheslines, faulty decorative lights causing short circuits, or earthen lamps setting curtains ablaze. Such incidents can escalate rapidly, posing significant dangers. In response, both Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) fire departments have launched extensive awareness drives. PMC officials are focusing on sensitizing individuals, particularly at firecracker stalls, on the proper use of fire extinguishers and general fire prevention techniques. PCMC, meanwhile, has strategically identified 19 high-risk locations for rapid response. Assistant commissioner of PCMC’s fire department, Umesh Dhakne, said, “We have 10 fire centres in the PCMC area. On the days of Diwali, we have identified 19 areas having a high concentration of people or large number of firecracker stores. The vehicles being placed in such areas will ensure that in the event of fire, they can rush to the spot.” This proactive stationing aims to ensure quicker response times and easier movement of fire tenders. PMC’s firecracker safety awareness campaign is also in full swing. Devendra Potphode, chief fire officer, PMC, confirmed that “All 23 fire stations and teams in the city are on alert 24×7. And all employees’ leaves have been cancelled during this period.” Fire engines are actively patrolling areas having cracker stalls, disseminating safety messages via megaphones. Both written and verbal instructions are being provided to cracker sellers and citizens to educate them on immediate responses in case of a fire, prioritising their safety. Beyond municipal efforts, residential societies across the city are also issuing their own advisories. Ameya Jagtap, chairman of Balewadi’s Perfect 10 Society, detailed their measures: A dedicated, cleared area for lighting crackers, strict prohibitions against igniting fireworks from balconies, and a mandate that all children be accompanied by a parent. “We have moved out any cars or electrical appliances from the nearby dedicated area so that there is no chance of a stray fire catching here,” Jagtap added, emphasizing their commitment to safety.
