Fire audits ramped up in Telangana as accidents surge; summer heightens accident risk

After a spate of fire accidents in the first two months of the year, the Telangana Fire Department has intensified fire audits, surprise inspections and public awareness drives across the State in a bid to prevent further tragedies.

With summer setting in and the risk of electrical overloading increasing, officials said vigilance has been stepped up across commercial and residential buildings. Hyderabad District Fire Officer–1, T. Venkanna, said that 21 fire stations under his jurisdiction are regularly conducting awareness programs and mock drills in various localities in coordination with the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA), the police and the electrical departments.

The officials warned that summer brings a sharp rise in electricity consumption, with air-conditioners, inverters and other appliances operating simultaneously, heightening the risk of short circuits. Residents and business owners were advised to check sanctioned electrical loads, ensure proper wiring, avoid overloading circuits and clear unused combustible materials that could fuel a blaze.

A Bronto Skylift Hydraulic Platform was used to demonstrate rescue operations during evacuation mock drill at the Income Tax Towers, A.C. Guards, Masab Tank.
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By Arrangement

Surprise inspections twice a month

On the 11th of every month, Assistant District Fire Officers, and on the 22nd, District Fire Officers, conduct surprise inspections through a centralised online dashboard that randomly assigns buildings for checks.

Lapses warrants denial of NOC renewal

As per the National Building Code and the Telangana Fire Service Act, buildings above 15 metres require a No Objection Certificate (NOC)from the Fire department, which also conducts inspections and renewals to ensure compliance with prescribed norms. Fire audits assess whether firefighting systems are installed and functional, flag gaps, and educate occupants on their use. Renewal of NOCs is denied in cases of serious lapses, while minor deficiencies are given time for rectification. In grave violations, prosecution is recommended.

Officials acknowledged that several accidents in the recent past have occurred in smaller structures, particularly those below 15 metres, which fall under HYDRAA’s purview. Medchal-Malkajgiri District Fire Officer, V. Srinivas, said the department is increasing awareness programmes and mock drills in such buildings, while continuing regular audits of high-risk and high-hazard category structures.

Rescue and clearance operations continue at the Batcha’s Furniture Castle in Nampally, Hyderabad. File
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RAMAKRISHNA G

Authorities also raised concerns over the misuse of premises. Residential buildings were used for commercial activities and storage, while cellars meant strictly for parking were converted into warehouses or living spaces. In a recent fatal incident at Batcha’s Furniture Castle, storage in the two-level cellar intensified the fire, while material stacked on the ramp blocked access routes, hampering rescue operations and contributing to five deaths.

A public awareness programme by Telangana Fire Disaster Emergency Response personnel in Hyderabad
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Every Friday, Fire Stations conduct mock drills in crowded public spaces such as schools, malls and shopping areas, inspecting installations and training the public in basic firefighting and evacuation procedures.

Fire safety awareness for Traders Association of Deewan Dewdi to promote fire prevention practices and strengthening emergency preparedness
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By Arrangement

A recent awareness programme was conducted at Deewan Devdi for local traders, where officials flagged unsafe electrical installations, improper storage practices and misuse of cellar spaces as major risks. Shop owners were directed to maintain firefighting systems, keep exits unobstructed and refrain from using cellars for storage or residential purposes. A mock evacuation drill was also carried out at M.S. Creative School, Malakpet.

Officials said audits, drills and inspections will be further scaled up in the coming weeks, stressing that prevention, compliance and public awareness remain the strongest safeguards against avoidable fire disasters.