The Festival of Lights in Patna took a dangerous turn as the city witnessed not one, but seven major fire incidents during Diwali celebrations, putting emergency services to the test and raising alarm bells about public safety during festivals.
Multiple Locations, Similar Stories
Firefighters battled blazes across various parts of the city, including prominent areas like Boring Road, Kankarbagh, and Gardanibagh. The incidents occurred within hours of each other, stretching the fire department's resources thin during what should have been a joyous celebration.
Emergency Response Under Pressure
According to fire department officials, multiple fire tenders were deployed simultaneously to contain the rapidly spreading flames. "Our teams worked round the clock," stated a senior fire officer. "The simultaneous nature of these incidents challenged our response capabilities."
Common Causes Emerge
Preliminary investigations point toward several recurring factors:
- Electrical short circuits from overloaded decorative lighting
- Careless handling of fireworks near combustible materials
- Storage of flammable substances in residential areas
- Lack of proper safety measures in crowded marketplaces
Property Damage and Close Calls
While miraculous escapes were reported in several incidents, significant property damage occurred across affected locations. Shop owners in commercial areas faced substantial losses as fire consumed merchandise and damaged structures. Residents recounted harrowing experiences of evacuating their homes as flames spread rapidly.
Authorities Issue Safety Advisory
Following these incidents, fire safety officials have emphasized the need for strict adherence to safety protocols during festivals. They recommend:
- Regular inspection of electrical installations before festivals
- Keeping fireworks away from buildings and vehicles
- Maintaining clear access routes for emergency vehicles
- Having fire extinguishers readily available in crowded areas
As Patna recovers from these alarming incidents, questions remain about whether current safety measures are adequate for managing risks during major public celebrations. The back-to-back fires serve as a stark reminder that festival joy must be balanced with safety consciousness.
