Why are buildings not protected from fire outbreaks?
Real Estate

Why are buildings not protected from fire outbreaks?

Among the most recent reports, 20 students were killed and several injured after a major fire broke out – triggered by a short circuit – at a coaching centre in Sarthana area of Surat. According to India Risk Survey (IRS) 2018, as reported, fire outbreak is the third biggest risk to business continuity and operations. “The recommendations for construction of low-rise and high-rise structures should be properly followed,” says Dr Pramod Kumar Gupta, Professor, Structural Engineering, Department of Civil Engineering, IIT-Roorkee, adding that, in most cases, basic recommendations are not followed. “The used material should meet the specified requirement of fire resistance. A new version of IS 456 specifically covers different structural elements as per fire resistance.”

Consider this: In Delhi, a fire broke out at Arpit Palace hotel in Karol Bagh on February 12 and a four-storey building belonging to gift store Archies on February 14. Last year, a fire broke out in Beaumonde Towers in Mumbai’s Prabhadevi, the complex where actor Deepika Padukone resides; also, the government-run ESIC Kamgar Hospital located in suburban Andheri in Mumbai caught fire. Reports revealed that the hospital contained inflammable material owing to ongoing construction work, which caught fire, and the flames spread rapidly. Also, firefighting equipment was reportedly not in place.

While non-compliance of safety norms and under-equipped fire services are responsible for the sudden increase in risk posed by fire outbreaks, the use of low-quality or wrong building materials does contribute to such mishaps.

SHRIYAL SETHUMADHAVAN

Among the most recent reports, 20 students were killed and several injured after a major fire broke out – triggered by a short circuit – at a coaching centre in Sarthana area of Surat. According to India Risk Survey (IRS) 2018, as reported, fire outbreak is the third biggest risk to business continuity and operations. “The recommendations for construction of low-rise and high-rise structures should be properly followed,” says Dr Pramod Kumar Gupta, Professor, Structural Engineering, Department of Civil Engineering, IIT-Roorkee, adding that, in most cases, basic recommendations are not followed. “The used material should meet the specified requirement of fire resistance. A new version of IS 456 specifically covers different structural elements as per fire resistance.” Consider this: In Delhi, a fire broke out at Arpit Palace hotel in Karol Bagh on February 12 and a four-storey building belonging to gift store Archies on February 14. Last year, a fire broke out in Beaumonde Towers in Mumbai’s Prabhadevi, the complex where actor Deepika Padukone resides; also, the government-run ESIC Kamgar Hospital located in suburban Andheri in Mumbai caught fire. Reports revealed that the hospital contained inflammable material owing to ongoing construction work, which caught fire, and the flames spread rapidly. Also, firefighting equipment was reportedly not in place. While non-compliance of safety norms and under-equipped fire services are responsible for the sudden increase in risk posed by fire outbreaks, the use of low-quality or wrong building materials does contribute to such mishaps. SHRIYAL SETHUMADHAVAN

Next Story
Resources

Madhya Pradesh Champions Inclusive Tourism at Heritage Sites

On the occasion of World Heritage Day, Madhya Pradesh is taking a significant step toward inclusive tourism by making its historical sites accessible to all — especially persons with disabilities. The state is rolling out its ‘Accessibility Infrastructure and Development’ project at Maheshwar, Mandu, Dhar, and Orchha, aiming to create a more welcoming experience at these iconic cultural destinations.The initiative, under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav and Tourism Minister Shri Dharmendra Bhav Singh Lodhi, includes infrastructure upgrades such as ramps, Braille signage, w..

Next Story
Resources

Runwal Realty Onboards Sonam Kapoor as Brand Ambassador

Real estate major Runwal has unveiled a refreshed identity as Runwal Realty, signalling a renewed commitment to crafting spaces that stand the test of time. With this refresh, the brand unveils its new philosophy: “Building for Generations to Come” and welcomes Bollywood star and global fashion icon Sonam Kapoor as its brand ambassador. This evolved identity reflects Runwal Realty’s commitment to creating not just homes, but heirlooms—crafted through visionary design, meticulous planning, global design expertise and an unwavering focus on quality. With the customer at its core, each de..

Next Story
Infrastructure Urban

Emerging Trends in Infrastructure and Transport 2025: KPMG

KPMG’s latest report, The Great Reset: Emerging Trends in Infrastructure and Transport 2025 edition, sheds light on the profound changes transforming the global infrastructure landscape. As industries adapt to the challenges posed by climate change, economic pressures, and technological advancements, the report identifies key trends and provides actionable insights for leaders in infrastructure and transport sectors. “In today’s interconnected world, the lack of standardized supply chain practices is not just an operational challenge—it’s an environmental and economic one. We’..

Advertisement

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?