Delhi Shatters Fire Records on Diwali: Firefighters Battle Over 400 Blazes Across City

Delhi Fire Services faced an overwhelming number of emergency calls on Monday night as Diwali celebrations lit up the city. By 6:00 AM on Tuesday, officials reported receiving over 400 fire-related calls, and the count continued to rise as incidents from across the capital poured in.

Record-Breaking Fire Calls on Diwali Night

According to an ANI report, the Delhi Fire Services initially received 170 calls by 11:30 PM on Diwali night. However, by 6:00 AM the next day, the number had surged to over 400. Thankfully, most incidents were minor and quickly contained.

Major Factory Fires Challenge Firefighters

Two significant factory fires in the Narela industrial area tested the skills of firefighters. The first blaze broke out at a shoe manufacturing unit in the DSIIDC Industrial Area of Narela, where 16 fire tenders were deployed. Thick black smoke engulfed the building, causing concern among nearby residents.

Soon after, another fire erupted at a cardboard manufacturing factory in Bhorgarh Industrial Area, Phase 2, just a few kilometres away. This fire was more intense, and 26 fire tenders were sent to control the blaze. Fire Officer SK Dua confirmed, "Delhi Fire Service received a call regarding the fire incident at the cardboard manufacturing factory in Bhorgarh Industrial Area Phase 2 in Narela. 26 fire tenders are present at the spot. The fire has been controlled."

Diwali Fire Incidents on the Rise

Delhi traditionally experiences a spike in fire-related incidents during Diwali, despite restrictions on fireworks. Last year, the city recorded 318 fire incidents on Diwali night, marking the highest number in 13 years according to the New Indian Express. The final count for this year is still being compiled.