The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani has directed municipal officials to file police complaints against owners of vehicles that obstruct fire brigade vehicles en route to fire emergencies. This move targets those who park haphazardly, especially on narrow, winding roads, and may face strict action going forward.
The directive was issued during a meeting of senior BMC officials held on Wednesday at the Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Zoo and Botanical Garden in Byculla. The meeting focused on reviewing various BMC schemes, ongoing projects, and the challenges associated with them.
Previously, the fire brigade was known for reaching accident sites within three minutes. However, with Mumbai’s growing population and vehicle density, fire engines are increasingly delayed due to traffic congestion and poorly parked vehicles. This delay, especially during the crucial 'golden hour' after an incident, can cost lives and cause significant property damage.
Despite several measures by the BMC including the introduction of small rapid response fire vehicles and the establishment of more fire stations delays persist. In many cases, fire engines must first wait for parked vehicles to be removed in narrow lanes, wasting valuable time. To address this, Gagrani has mandated strict police action against vehicle owners obstructing fire services.
Traffic Congestion and Fire Brigade Under Pressure
Mumbai's densely populated neighbourhoods and narrow lanes pose serious challenges for rescue operations. While small fire vehicles help in tight areas, large-scale fires still require bigger fire engines, ladder trucks, ambulances, and water tankers, which often struggle to reach the scene promptly. These delays lead to criticism of the fire brigade’s efficiency, prompting Gagrani’s directive.
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Action Against Abandoned Vehicles and Encroachments
Gagrani also ordered the immediate removal of abandoned vehicles and scrap materials that hinder smooth traffic and pedestrian movement. Additionally, he instructed that a special campaign be conducted—with support from various departments—to clear crowded areas and railway station zones of unauthorized hawkers.
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