Chief Fire Officer Narendra Singh Kunwar held a joint Google Meet with fire officials from Almora, Pithoragarh and Bageshwar on Monday to strengthen fire safety arrangements for Diwali. Officials were given strict directions to prevent fire incidents and improve preparedness around firecracker markets.
The instructions directly affect market organisers, firecracker sellers and local fire officials. Authorities must ensure that designated markets follow safety requirements before and during the festival.
Rules for firecracker markets
Firecracker markets must be established only in open grounds. They must be located away from residential areas, petrol pumps and gas warehouses to reduce the risk of fire spreading or causing a wider emergency.
The routes used by fire tenders must remain clear at all times. Market organisers and officials will need to ensure that vehicles can enter and leave without obstruction during an emergency.
Every firecracker shop must keep a fire extinguisher, water and sand on site. These arrangements are mandatory under the directions issued during the meeting.
The use of open electrical wires in the markets has been completely prohibited. This measure is intended to reduce possible ignition risks in areas where firecrackers are being sold and stored.
Instructions for fire officials
Officials have been directed to keep all fire hydrants in their areas operational. Fire station, Dial 112 and No Smoking signboards must also be installed in firecracker markets.
The directions cover the 3 districts represented in the joint meeting: Almora, Pithoragarh and Bageshwar. The fire department’s focus is on preventing incidents through safer market locations, accessible emergency routes and basic firefighting resources at every shop.
For residents, the arrangements mean that firecracker markets should be placed away from sensitive locations and marked with emergency information. For sellers, keeping the required equipment and following the electrical safety restriction will be essential.
Conclusion
The joint directions require Diwali firecracker markets in Almora, Pithoragarh and Bageshwar to operate from safer locations with clear fire-tender access, firefighting equipment, working hydrants and mandatory warning signs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Which districts were included in the meeting?
The meeting included fire officials from Almora, Pithoragarh and Bageshwar.
Q. Who issued the fire-safety directions?
Chief Fire Officer Narendra Singh Kunwar issued the directions during the joint Google Meet.
Q. Where should firecracker markets be established?
They must be set up in open grounds away from residential areas, petrol pumps and gas warehouses.
Q. What must firecracker shops keep?
Each shop must have a fire extinguisher, water and sand.
Q. What signage is required in the markets?
Fire station, Dial 112 and No Smoking signboards must be installed.
Q. What is prohibited in the markets?
Open electrical wires are completely prohibited.
