KMC holds state-level meeting to curb rising fire incidents; 30-day action plan ordered

Kolkata Municipal Corporation held the first meeting of the Fire Safety and Regulatory Compliance State Committee to address the increasing frequency of fire incidents in the state and the resulting loss of life and property. The meeting was convened under the direction of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Key attendees included Mayor Firhad Hakim, ministers Arup Biswas, Sujit Bose, and Pradip Mazumdar, Police Commissioner Manoj Verma, ADG Law and Order Javed Shamim, Fire Directorate General Ranveer Kumar, Municipal Commissioner Dhawal Jain, and Khalil Ahmed.

The committee conducted a detailed review of the fire-fighting infrastructure and regulations across Kolkata and the wider state. It discussed the immediate and long-term steps required to control fire incidents, including inspecting fire safety arrangements, preparing lists of hazardous buildings and commercial establishments, and enforcing strict adherence to fire safety norms. The meeting emphasized the importance of regulatory compliance and systematic oversight to prevent future incidents.

Members of the committee were tasked with submitting a comprehensive report with recommendations to the Chief Secretary within 30 days. The report is expected to cover inspection findings, risk assessments, and suggestions for improving fire safety measures statewide. This committee will oversee fire safety operations and regulatory enforcement across West Bengal.