Jammu, Nov 09 (KNO): Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh on Monday said the massive fire at a warehouse in Jammu, which broke out on Diwali, has exposed the need for a proper Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) during festive seasons, particularly at sensitive locations where fireworks and firecrackers are likely to be used. He directed that Fire and Emergency Services teams remain on standby for immediate response.
Speaking to reporters here, Singh, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), expressed grief over the incident, saying it was fortunate that no loss of human life was reported. He said the incident was particularly unfortunate as it occurred on the day of Diwali, and noted that workers often stay inside the shops but had probably gone home to celebrate the festival with their families, preventing a potentially bigger tragedy.
The Union Minister said the administration reached the spot during the night and remained there until 6:00 am. However, he acknowledged complaints regarding the response of the Fire and Emergency Services, saying the matter had been taken up with the concerned authorities.
Singh said that several inflammable materials, including cotton, acid, oil and dry brooms, were stored in the affected shops, which contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. "The Fire and Emergency Services authorities should hold discussions with warehouse representatives, including President Deepak Gupta, to establish safety guidelines and precautions for storing such materials," he said.
"The responsibility of the Fire and Emergency Services Department is not limited to extinguishing fires; it also includes preventing them and creating awareness about fire safety," he added, assuring full cooperation in implementing preventive measures.
On the financial losses suffered by traders, the minister said commercial properties are not covered under the existing SDRF norms. Dr Singh said he would request the UT government to examine the matter under special consideration and explore possibilities of providing financial assistance or compensation to the affected traders—(KNO)