Delhi's Greener, Safer Diwali: A Testament to Responsible Celebrations and Fire Service Vigilance

Delhi just celebrated a Diwali that sparkled brighter with responsibility than with crackers, marking a significant triumph for public safety and environmental consciousness. The capital witnessed a dramatic drop in fire-related incidents, a testament to the collective efforts of its citizens and the unwavering vigilance of the Delhi Fire Service (DFS).

As the festive fervor swept across the city, the DFS reported a mere 104 fire calls by midnight on November 1st, a stark contrast to the 105 calls in 2023, 152 in 2022, and a whopping 182 in 2021.

This downward trend is a clear indicator that the message of responsible celebrations, coupled with stricter enforcement of firecracker bans, is resonating deeply within the community.

Atul Garg, Director of the Delhi Fire Service, lauded the public for their exceptional cooperation. "The decrease in fire calls is largely due to the public's understanding and adherence to the guidelines for a cracker-free and safe Diwali," he stated, emphasizing that awareness campaigns played a pivotal role in fostering a sense of shared responsibility.

Behind this success story was an army of dedicated firefighters.

The DFS had strategically deployed a formidable force of 3,500 personnel across its 68 fire stations. To ensure rapid response in densely populated or high-risk areas, an additional 20 temporary fire posts were established, augmented by 10 agile bike-borne quick response teams. Their proactive presence meant that any potential hazard could be addressed almost instantly.

While the overall picture was positive, the DFS teams were not entirely without incident.

Minor blazes were reported, such as one in Shahbad Dairy where stray crackers landed on an open plot, igniting a small fire. Another incident in Chandni Chowk saw fireworks cause a brief scare. However, thanks to the swift action of the deployed teams, these situations were contained quickly and efficiently, preventing any major damage or casualties.

The medical fraternity also echoed a sense of relief, though some burn injuries were reported across various hospitals.

These figures, while unfortunate for those affected, remain lower than typical peak Diwali periods, reinforcing the narrative of a safer festival. This year's Diwali in Delhi stands as a beacon of how tradition can evolve to prioritize safety and sustainability, proving that responsible celebrations truly shine the brightest.