Bhubaneswar: Following a recent fire at the Priyadarshini Market Complex in Bhubaneswar, Odisha Chief Secretary Anu Garg chaired a high-level meeting to review the state's fire safety readiness. Taking the incident seriously, she directed various departments to tighten safety measures and urged the public to remain alert.
The meeting took place at Lok Seva Bhawan. Key officials attended, including Hemant Sharma (Additional Chief Secretary), Dr. Sudhanshu Sarangi (DG Fire Services), Usha Padhee (Housing & Urban Development), Vishal Kumar Dev (Energy and IT), and Chanchal Rana (BMC Commissioner). 
Odisha Fire Safety: New Rules for Buildings After Bhubaneswar Market Fire


Key Directives for Fire Safety

The Chief Secretary emphasized that the government must be fully prepared for quick responses. To ensure better safety, she issued the following instructions:
  • Public Awareness: Launching a massive "Information, Education, and Communication" (IEC) campaign to teach citizens about fire prevention.
  • Safety Certificates: Commercial buildings, housing societies, and high-rises must strictly follow fire safety guidelines and hold valid fire safety certificates.
  • Fire Supervisors: Every major establishment must appoint a dedicated "Fire Supervisor" from their existing staff.
  • Specialized Training: The Fire Services department will provide formal training to these newly appointed supervisors.
  • Electrical Audits: Regular inspections of electrical wiring in buildings are now a priority to prevent short circuits.

Odisha Fire Safety: New Rules for Buildings After Bhubaneswar Market Fire


A Call to Action for Citizens

Chief Secretary Anu Garg reminded everyone that fire accidents pose a massive threat to both life and property. She stressed that safety is a shared responsibility and every citizen must follow fire protocols.
Dr. Sudhanshu Sarangi, DG of Fire Services, also shared safety tips during the meeting. He urged the public to call the 112 helpline immediately in case of any emergency to get fast assistance.