Delhi Fire Service says 80% of the city is unplanned; staffing remains far below need

Delhi has more than 1,000 unauthorised colonies, and about 80% of its construction is unplanned, Chief Fire Officer A.K. Malik said, describing the Capital’s fire preparedness as “average and not up to the mark”.

For residents of Old Delhi and other dense neighbourhoods, narrow lanes, interconnected buildings and overhead wiring can make access difficult for fire engines. Malik said just about 5% of Delhi buildings have Occupancy Certificates, while many building plans do not reach civic or building authorities for approval or fire-safety clearance.

Delhi Fire Services currently operates 71 fire stations, against a requirement of 120, Malik said. It has around 2,500 firefighters, though the department estimates it needs more than 12,000. An additional 9,000 personnel are expected, while the department has proposed expanding to 120 stations over the next five years.

The department has deployed 24 smaller Quick Response Vehicles for congested areas, with 26 more due shortly and 50 further vehicles proposed. Malik said the prescribed five-minute response time is difficult to meet in Delhi because of traffic and narrow roads.