No way to show laxness

Over a thousand shopping malls in the capital lack adequate fire safety measures, according to finding of an inspection report prepared by Fire Service and Civil Defence Department. According to news reports, only 46 out of 1,126 shopping complexes in the capital have adequate fire safety measures.

The fire department got this finding after conducting an investigation at DCC market in the capital’s Gulshan which caught fire recently. The findings are really a matter of great concern. But it is a matter of surprise that shopping complexes in two city corporations and owned by police lack adequate fire safety measures. According to the fire department inspection report, 96 percent of shopping complexes in two city corporations are dangerous.

As per the rule, there will be adequate fire safety measures at any modern shopping complex. In this regard, there will be fire safety measures as per the location of shopping complexes, height of the buildings and sellers and buyers. Moreover, fire exit route must be designed in such a way that it is unobstructed and protected against smoke and heat with fire-rated doors, fitted with mechanical ventilation, connected directly with the road outside the buildings for easy access and exit.

Entrance and stairs of the shopping complex should be wider. Goods should be kept at store house. There must have training and primary treatment for the fire security workers. Emergency telephone system should be kept ready for the security workers.

It is seen that most of the shopping malls do not have adequate fire safety measures. Fire extinguisher cylinders are not used when required due to the lack of knowledge and proper training of the fire security workers. Luxurious shopping malls are being built in the capital by spending a huge amount of money. But proper importance is not being given to protect properties and lives from fire.

Markets are being built anywhere in the capital not following the security code. Electrical short circuit is said to be responsible for most of the fire incidents in residential areas, shopping complexes and factories. Electric wire, fittings, fuse, circuit breaker are not of good quality for these establishments. Besides, these are not regularly repaired and monitored.

The picture the fire department has brought in the front is really dreadful. Authorities concerned should come forward to take necessary steps immediately in order to ensure security for the shopping malls as thousands of people throng the malls. There is no way to show laxness to this end. Most fire incidents are seen to take place in the season coming ahead. So we all have to be aware of this.

risingbd/DHAKA/Feb 20, 2017/Ali Nowsher/Amirul