The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has developed a comprehensive fire-fighting plan for Unit-I, the city's largest retail vegetable and grocery market, to address the recurring fire incidents that have caused significant losses to traders over the years.
Key Components of the Plan
BMC officials announced that underground pipelines will be laid across the market to establish a network of hydrant points along internal roads. This system is designed to ensure quicker access to water during emergencies. The plan is being implemented in collaboration with the power distribution company, the fire services wing, and the Water Corporation of Odisha (Watco).
As part of the initiative, BMC will construct an underground water storage facility within the market premises. This will allow water to be pumped directly to hydrant points when needed. Watco will be responsible for sourcing water from an identified facility and supplying it to the storage system. Meanwhile, the power department will install high-capacity motor pumps to support rapid pumping and sustained water flow during firefighting operations.
Statements from Officials
BMC executive engineer Tarash Marndi explained, "Underground pipes will be laid in the internal roads of the market so that multiple hydrants can be set up and those can be used in case of mishaps. Fire extinguishing facilities will remain accessible both towards the retail veggie market as well as towards the rows of grocery outlets."
Background of Fire Incidents
The Unit-I market has been experiencing fire incidents at least twice a year, often resulting in massive damage. In January, a fire destroyed properties and goods worth approximately Rs 8 crore. Officials attributed the blaze to a short circuit, highlighting the risks posed by electrical wires criss-crossing the market area. Traders reported that shops in the front rows were reduced to ashes, while vending zones on the left, right, and back rows were also affected.
Earlier, on October 22 last year, at least 30 shops were gutted in an afternoon fire, further raising concerns about the market's vulnerability and the lack of in-situ firefighting infrastructure.
Survey and Approval
BMC officials noted that the fire services department, in coordination with BMC, conducted a detailed survey to prepare the plan for creating in-situ firefighting measures. To enable the construction of the storage facility, BMC has planned to free an encroached space within the market. The move has received approval from the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC), allowing the civic body to proceed with creating a dedicated water tank for emergency use.
