A Delhi Fire Service officer said that short circuits were the main culprits. The exceptionally hot summer has only exacerbated the problem. “Overloads have also emerged as a major cause of blazes. The strain on electrical systems significantly heightens fire risks,” the officer said.
According to another fire officer, many affected structures fall below the 9-metre height threshold that exempts them from acquiring a fire safety certificate from DFS. This exemption often leads owners to ignore essential fire safety measures, resulting in avoidable casualties and property damage.
“Combustible materials, meant for businesses, are haphazardly stacked up to the terrace, further obstructing escape routes and escalating fire risks,” said Atul Garg, director, DFS.
Moreover, firefighting operations have to deal with crowded weekend markets where access to blazes and manoeuvrability themselves are severely restricted. “The fires during weekends can be problematic. Not only that, but there is also a risk of injuries and casualties due to the presence of buyers in shops or the buildings,” Garg said.
Mercantile establishments include any building or a portion used as shops, stores or markets for the display and sale of wholesale and retail goods or merchandise.
