423 fire-related deaths in Delhi in last one year

Incidents of fire and related deaths are surging in the national capital year after year with the city registering over 21,000 cases and 423 deaths in the past one year.

According to Delhi Fire Services (DFS), 423 deaths were reported in the city due to fire while 2,598 people were injured in such incidents from April 2009 to March 2010.

A total of 21,314 calls were received at the Fire Control Room during the period as against last year's 16,452.

Last year, 380 deaths were reported and 2,225 people were injured in such incidents.

"Incidents of fire and deaths are increasing in the city year after year," DFS Director R C Sharma told reporters.

In 2003-04, there were 235 deaths and the Fire Control Room had received 14,595 calls.

He said the city will get 19 more fire stations during the 11th Five Year plan. "Sites have already been acquired for construction of fire stations and many more are in the process," he said.

At nine sites, work is in progress and ten are in final stages of completion, he said.

Sharma said 842 new posts in various ranks have been sanctioned by the government. A total of 1,242 vacancies of fire operators are being filled at present, he said.

In order to provide fire safety cover for rural areas, a fire post has been set up in Zaffarpur. This will continue to function till June 30.

Sharma said till April eight, the DFS has recommended the snapping of water and power connection of 714 high-rise buildings in the capital for not adhering to fire safety requirements.