Delhi government plans overhaul of Delhi Fire Service
Home Minister Ashish Sood announced plans to expand manpower, upgrade technology, and mandate fire safety systems in existing buildings.
The Delhi government has announced a comprehensive revamp of the Delhi Fire Service (DFS) to improve emergency response and address infrastructure gaps, according to reports by The New Indian Express and Hindustan Times. Home Minister Ashish Sood said on Tuesday that the plan includes upgrading technology, expanding frontline staff, and building new fire stations.
The overhaul follows a review meeting led by Lieutenant-Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu to discuss challenges such as traffic congestion, narrow lanes, and electrical overloading. To improve response times, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) will provide land for new stations, which the Public Works Department (PWD) will develop.
Under the new plan, the government will review rules to make fire alarms and sprinkler systems mandatory in existing buildings. The Power Department will also instruct electricity distribution companies to upgrade network capacity and increase sanctioned loads to manage electrical pressure.
Recruitment for firemen and station officers will be fast-tracked through coordination with the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and the Delhi Subordinate Services Selection Board (DSSSB). The DFS will also conduct regular physical fitness tests for fire operators.
Specialised equipment for handling highly combustible materials will be procured following Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) norms via an agreement with the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). Additionally, the DFS will launch safety awareness campaigns in schools, markets, and Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs).