Mumbai: After several past incidents where fire-fighting operations were delayed due to vehicles parked in narrow lanes, Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani has directed officials to file police complaints against such offenders.
The crackdown specifically targets those who park irresponsibly particularly on narrow, congested, or winding roads hampering timely access for fire services.
Illegally Parked Vehicles Delay Firefighting, Endanger Lives
In fire emergencies, every minute within the golden hour is crucial for saving lives and reducing damage. However, in recent years, Mumbai's narrow lanes, chronic traffic congestion, and indiscriminately parked vehicles have increasingly hindered the fire brigade’s response time, placing both lives and property at risk.
MFB Introduced Mini Fire Units in 2021 to Tackle Congestion
To tackle these challenges, the Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB) introduced mini fire stations and compact fire engines in 2021, enabling faster access and quicker intervention in densely populated and congested areas.
Andheri Medical Store Fire in 2016 Prompted Compact Vehicle Adoption
Meanwhile, a tragic fire at a medical store in Andheri West on June 30, 2016, claimed nine lives and highlighted the urgent need for mini fire vehicles- fire bikes capable of navigating congested areas leading to the early adoption of compact fire vehicles.
However, while these mini units serve as a crucial first response until larger fire engines arrive, major fires still require the timely arrival of full-sized fire engines for effective rescue operations.
Firefighters Struggle in High-Rises Due to Haphazard Parking
A fire official said, "In high-rise buildings, haphazard parking of vehicles severely hinders fire operations by obstructing access for fire tenders and personnel. Fire officials have to face the flak for the delay in rescue operations."
Gagrani Orders Multi-Agency Drive to Clear Congested Areas
During a review meeting on Wednesday, Gagrani directed fire officials to file police complaints against owners of vehicles obstructing fire engines during emergencies.
He also ordered the immediate removal of abandoned vehicles and scrap materials hindering traffic or pedestrian movement. Gagrani called for a multi-departmental campaign to clear unauthorised hawkers from congested areas and railway stations.
