Some hiccups are stonewalling the proposed draft of Fire Safety Act and owing to this, it has been put on hold by the Urban Administration and Development Department. When these issues, particularly related to the cost, are resolved, it will be tabled before the minister and later approval will be sought from the cabinet.
The safety act, known as Madhya Pradesh Agnisaman Evam Apatkalin Sevaen Adhiniyam 2022, has been pending for over a year. Although the draft of the act is ready, Principal Secretary Neeraj Mandloi has raised some queries that need to be addressed before it can be tabled for approval.
The draft of the act covers various aspects including the establishment of a unified fire and emergency service for the entire state, the structure and classification of fire and emergency service, the appointment of the Director of Fire and Emergency Service, the setup of fire stations, auxiliary fire and emergency service, and more.
It also focuses on the methodology for responding to calls, operations management, preventive measures, penalties for violation of duty, imposition of fire tax, fees for deployment of fire and emergency service beyond the state limits, as well as penalties for willfully obstructing fire fighting and rescue operations and false reporting.
According to the draft act, the state government will define the boundaries and scope of fire stations and other field formations. Additionally, each fire station will have a designated fire officer appointed by the state government.
Every person joining the fire and emergency service will receive a certificate in the prescribed format, granting them the powers, functions, and privileges of an employee of the fire and emergency service under the act.
The act also allows for the arrest of individuals who willfully obstruct and hinder fire and emergency service personnel during firefighting and rescue operations.
The proposed Fire Safety Act holds the potential to significantly enhance fire and emergency services in Madhya Pradesh, ensuring a more robust and efficient response to emergencies. However, the resolution of the pending issues, particularly those related to cost, is crucial for the smooth implementation of the act.
By defining key protocols, establishing a unified service, and enforcing penalties for non-compliance, the act aims to create a safer environment for the residents of Madhya Pradesh. It is now up to the concerned authorities to address the outstanding queries and push for the approval of the act, prioritizing the well-being and safety of the people.
