This refers to the editorial, “Criminal negligence” (October 20). In recent years, we have witnessed some of the worst fire infernos. The recent one is the SUM hospital fire tragedy in Bhubaneswar, which claimed more than 20 lives. By ignoring attention on fire safety measures, we are only paving the way for major disasters which are looming on establishments that don't have adequate fire protection systems.
As part of a larger emergency response mechanism, our cities needs well-equipped, well-trained fire brigades. In view of the worsening traffic conditions in our cities, timing is essential in controlling blazes. This is why it is essential that there must be an adequate number of fire stations so that fire tenders are able to arrive at the scene within minutes of a blaze being reported. Also, to face the fires in high-rising buildings, fire tenders which can have reach to manage fire at higher floors, are needed on call.