Rid storage spaces in all buildings of fire hazards

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The recent fire at Aayakar Bhavan (Income Tax office) at Churchgate brought fire-safety concerns linked to city basements under the scanner. The incident highlighted risks posed by basements in large buildings which are used to store large quantities of combustible material.

More than 1500 employees were evacuated. Electrical wiring melted together, while water used during firefighting accumulated to knee-deep levels, said a report in this paper.

We need fire-safety audits, controlled basement storage, unobstructed escape routes and coordinated evacuation plans in Mumbai's large offices and institutional buildings, said the advisory within the report.

The fire began in a 12,000-sq-ft J-shaped basement storing documents, carpets, and other inflammable material. It is important to note that basements and open spaces, even corners in buildings stay clear of flammable material. This refers to a broad scenario where basements, especially or even open garages, or any open space, become a dumping ground for wood, tarpaulin sheets, plastic or other material.

Even old wires at times hang about from above or are bundled somewhere in a corner. Then, in case of a deluge resulting in flooding, this poses a risk, as fire may begin from there and the smoke move upwards.

Keep basements and underground storage clear. We see rubbish heaped in underground parking lots too at times, leftover material and furniture that will catch fire easily. While extinguishers, audits, and drills are all useful, let us work internally too, to keep our building spaces safe and clear.