Kolkata's Logistics Hubs Operate Without Fire Safety Near Anandapur Fire Site
In the aftermath of the devastating Anandapur fire, a concerning reality has emerged in Kolkata. Numerous commercial units, particularly logistics hubs and warehouses serving e-commerce firms and various companies, continue to operate in the vicinity without implementing adequate fire safety measures. This alarming situation has been brought to light by local residents and gig workers who are increasingly vocal about the potential hazards.
Residents Voice Grave Concerns Over Safety Violations
The area, which has rapidly transformed into a bustling logistics hub off EM Bypass, is now under scrutiny for its blatant disregard of fire safety compliance. Tamal Mondal, a resident of Nazirabad, provided a detailed account of the development. "These warehouses have been constructed over the last few years after filling up bheris (water bodies). The owners typically reside elsewhere and lease these units to different companies. My uncle sold one of his bheris years ago, which was subsequently landfilled. Now, a plywood godown and an automobile servicing centre occupy that space. None of these establishments adhere to fire safety regulations," he explained.
Another concerned resident, Milon Naskar, has urgently appealed to the administration for intervention. "Most of these warehouses are packed with inflammable materials, yet there are no proper fire security arrangements. These units operate around the clock. Our residential building is sandwiched between two such logistics units. If a fire were to erupt, we would suffer catastrophic consequences," he warned, emphasizing the immediate need for monitoring and enforcement actions against violators.
Workers Live in Fear Amidst Hazardous Conditions
The recent fire incident has instilled widespread panic and fear among workers employed in these warehouses. Prosenjit Jana, who works at a plywood godown, shared his harrowing experience. "I am required to work night shifts at least three times a week. Given the abundance of inflammable objects stored here, escaping alive during a fire would be nearly impossible. We have already expressed our concerns to the godown manager. Since the incident, night shifts have become a source of constant anxiety for us," he revealed.
Adding to the chorus of distress, Tapan Das from Baruipur, employed at an e-commerce warehouse approximately 300 meters from the fire site, highlighted the dire conditions. "Our delivery services operate 24/7, with at least 20 people present during night hours. While there are a few fire extinguishers, the warehouse is crammed with combustible materials and lacks a clear escape route. In the event of a fire, suffocation due to poor ventilation would be a significant risk, and reaching the main gate would pose a formidable challenge," he stated, painting a grim picture of the workplace safety standards.
Call for Immediate Action and Regulatory Oversight
The collective testimonies from residents and workers underscore a critical need for:
- Enhanced Monitoring: Regular inspections by fire safety authorities to ensure compliance with established norms.
- Strict Enforcement: Immediate action against commercial units operating in violation of fire safety regulations.
- Infrastructure Improvements: Mandatory installation of adequate firefighting equipment and clear escape routes in all warehouses.
- Public Awareness: Initiatives to educate both employers and employees about fire safety protocols and emergency procedures.
As Kolkata continues to expand its logistical capabilities to support the booming e-commerce sector, ensuring the safety of both workers and nearby residents must become a paramount priority. The current situation near the Anandapur fire site serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of neglecting fire safety measures in densely populated and industrially active areas.
