Dr. Vikram Mehta, Fire Evacuation Man of Maharashtra
As Mumbai's real estate market witnesses remarkable expansion, the issue of fire safety in high-rise structures has become increasingly critical. Recent fire incidents, including the Times Tower fire, the Kalpataru Residence blaze in Goregaon, and the Chembur fire, underscore the urgent need for improved fire safety protocols.
Mumbai has undergone rapid development. In 2021, 70,023 units were launched, just 12% below pre-pandemic levels, with 62,989 units sold, surpassing pre-pandemic sales by 3%. Q3 2022 saw launches grow 49% YoY and sales increase 35% YoY. The pandemic shifted mindsets, with people opting for ownership and upgrading homes for 'work-from-home' and 'school-from-home' lifestyles.
Urban transportation advancements have unlocked the potential of real estate, leading to a surge in construction and demand. However, the alarming rise in fire incidents, lift accidents, house collapses, and potholes raises concerns about the human cost of this development, underscoring the urgent need to prioritize safety and infrastructure development alongside economic growth.
Special Fire Safety Regulations: A Step in the Right Direction
The Mumbai High Court has mandated the State Government to implement specific Fire Safety Regulations, which include the installation of Fire Towers and Fire Evacuation Lifts in high-rise buildings. These provisions aim to enhance emergency response and evacuation procedures.
Should the government fail to comply, the court may consider halting all developmental approvals. Given the current trends in infrastructure development, the necessity for these regulations is clear, especially as the number of incidents continues to rise. It is also crucial to examine the underlying causes of these increasing figures to ensure that we remain vigilant and adhere strictly to fire safety protocols.
Primary issues identified
Electrical Short Circuits and use of ACPs: Data reveals that electrical short circuits account for approximately 70% of fire incidents. However, other factors contribute to the vulnerability of high-rise buildings to fires. The use of Aluminum Composite Panels (ACP) in building facades has been identified as a significant risk factor. ACPs are highly combustible, spreading flames rapidly and intensifying fire damage. When high-rise buildings clad with Aluminum Composite Panels (ACP) catch fire, the consequences can be catastrophic. The toxic fumes and smoke emitted by burning ACP panels often lead to suffocation, claiming numerous lives.
In the event of a fire, ACP panels can produce dense smoke, reducing visibility; generate extreme heat, fueling the fire; release toxic fumes, causing respiratory distress and suffocation. The devastating consequences of ACP panel fires highlight the need for stricter building codes and regulations; alternative, fire-resistant materials; enhanced fire safety measures and emergency preparedness.
Glass Façades: These are popular for their aesthetic appeal, but also pose fire risks. Shattered glass can injure occupants and hinder evacuation efforts. Glass façades can trap heat, exacerbating fire conditions.
Poor Maintenance: Inadequate maintenance is a critical contributor to fire hazards in high-rise buildings. Neglected electrical systems, faulty wiring, and uncleaned ducts create an environment ripe for disaster. Regular maintenance of Fire Evacuation Lifts and Fire Towers is paramount to ensure safe evacuation during fire emergencies. Unfortunately, many residential societies and builders neglect this critical responsibility, putting lives at risk.
It is important to regularly inspect and maintain Fire Evacuation Lifts and Fire Towers; update maintenance records and logs from vendors; ensure compliance with fire safety regulations and guidelines; and conduct routine fire drills and training. Consequences of neglect can lead to the failure of critical evacuation systems during fires; increased risk of injury or fatality; delayed evacuation, allowing fires to spread.
As the city's real estate sector continues to grow, collective responsibility and vigilance are crucial in preventing fire tragedies by adopting proactive measures that mitigate the risks associated with high-rise buildings.
Challenges that hinder effective fire safety in high-rises:
- Rapid Urbanization: High population density and overcrowded urban areas make firefighting and rescue operations difficult.
- Inadequate Infrastructure: Narrow streets, congested buildings, and lack of open spaces hinder emergency response.
- Lack of Awareness: Insufficient knowledge among the public regarding fire safety measures and emergency response procedures.
- Limited Resources: Fire departments face challenges in acquiring modern equipment, training, and Shortage of skilled firefighters and support staff.
