New Delhi: Delhi recorded 36,877 emergency calls in 2025-26, the highest in six years, with fire-related incidents accounting for 55.3% of the total. The remaining calls concerned animal and bird rescues and other emergencies.
An alarming 99% of fire incidents occurred in premises without valid fire safety certificates. Delhi currently has 71 fire stations, including four that operate only during the day, against the Master Plan norm of at least 120 stations to ensure a five-minute response time.
Officials said Sandhu directed a review of fire response times, particularly in densely populated colonies, industrial clusters and high-rise buildings. He also called for periodic fire-risk mapping of vulnerable areas and mock drills,” an official said. Incidents were more frequent in unauthorised colonies and buildings where inadequate access often delayed fire tenders. Even in planned areas, fires were triggered by electricity consumption far exceeding sanctioned loads and the presence of combustible materials. He also called for a zone-wise action plan with measurable targets and periodic monitoring. “The LG asked for effective coordination with traffic police, MCD, DDA and other agencies to ensure unobstructed access for fire tenders. The meeting, attended by state home minister Ashish Sood, the chief secretary, MCD commissioner, special commissioner of Delhi Police, principal secretary (home) and other senior Delhi govt officials, reviewed operational preparedness, public safety, resource augmentation and time-bound implementation of measures. To address existing constraints, Sandhu called for sustained, proactive fire safety awareness campaigns involving students, resident welfare associations, industry associations and market traders’ associations. He also directed agencies to step up inspections and audits, particularly in residential buildings, markets, industrial premises and mixed-use areas. Buildings with recurring violations must be identified and corrective action ensured in consultation with their residents or owners, he added.
These details were presented at a meeting chaired by lieutenant governor TS Sandhu on Friday to review the functioning of Delhi Fire Service (DFS).