Ghaziabad: The onset of summer is typically accompanied by a sharp rise in fire incidents, driven by high temperatures, dry conditions and increased electricity usage.Data from the fire department shows a steady upward trend in recent months in Ghaziabad, with cases rising from 79 in Jan to 97 in Feb, 128 in March and 286 in April (till April 29), taking the total to 580 incidents so far this year.On Thursday afternoon, a massive blaze swept through the Kanawani slum cluster in Indirapuram, reducing more than 150 jhuggis to ashes. At least 50 gas cylinders exploded, triggering panic and forcing residents to flee in a stampede-like situation. The fire also spread to a nearby dog shelter in Kanawani village, which housed more than 70 sick and stray dogs. Seven dogs were killed, while others were rescued by fire and police teams.The fire department has identified 42 buildings — including residential complexes, hospitals and hotels — as unsafe due to non-compliance with fire safety norms. Earlier inspections between 2017 and 2022 flagged 51 such buildings; nine have since upgraded their systems, while legal proceedings against the remaining 42 are ongoing.In the first week of April, the department also issued 150 notices to high-rise societies, hospitals and hotels, directing them to obtain no objection certificates (NOCs) and upgrade firefighting equipment following inspections.Chief fire officer Rahul Pal said most summer fires are linked to heat-induced electrical stress. “Around 90% of incidents are caused by short circuits in homes, industries and other establishments. During summer, the use of fans, coolers and air conditioners increases significantly, putting excess load on electrical systems. This leads to overheating, sparking and eventually fires,” he said.He added that vehicle fires also rise during this period due to electrical faults and ignition of fuel vapours. Methane emissions from waste are another risk factor, as they can easily catch fire in high temperatures.Officials have urged residents to follow basic precautions, including using ISI-marked appliances, opting for copper wiring and switching off electrical devices before leaving home. Installing safety systems such as MCBs and RCCBs is also recommended, as many incidents occur when appliances are left running unattended.
