Patna : The Bihar Fire Department has intensified preparations for Durga Puja, identifying 80 sensitive puja pandals in Patna and training volunteers to respond to fire emergencies during the festival.
With large crowds expected at pandals across the state, the department is conducting inspections, checking compliance with fire safety standards and arranging firefighting vehicles at vulnerable locations. Similar safety awareness activities are also underway in Bhagalpur.
1,173 Pandals Inspected, 46 Issued Notices
The Fire Department said it inspected 1,173 puja pandals in a single day and issued notices to 46 that failed to comply with prescribed fire safety standards.
The concerned puja committees have been directed to follow the required safety norms. The department has warned that action will be taken under applicable rules against organisers who continue to disregard the instructions.
Officials have emphasised that public safety will remain a priority during the festivities.
54 Fire Engines And 30 Control Rooms In Patna
Considering the expected crowds and potential fire risks, the department has identified 80 sensitive pandals across Patna district. Fire engines will be positioned at designated locations to ensure a prompt response in an emergency.
According to the department, 54 fire engines have been kept ready in Patna, while around 30 control rooms have been established for coordination and rapid response. More than 200 additional personnel have also been deployed.
The department has collected data on approximately 1,500 puja pandals and issued fire safety instructions to their organisers. Monitoring through control rooms and the availability of fire engines at sensitive locations are part of the preparations.
Three Volunteers From Each Pandal To Receive Training
The department is involving puja committees in fire prevention and emergency preparedness. Three members from each puja pandal will receive training in basic fire response, safety precautions and initial rescue measures.
The trained volunteers will also be provided with jackets by the department to help identify them during emergency response activities. The initiative is intended to support initial relief efforts until professional firefighters arrive.
Deputy Inspector General of the Fire Department Manoj Kumar Nat said Patna experiences heavy crowds during Durga Puja, with some locations requiring particular attention because of their sensitivity to potential emergencies.
He said the department had made extensive arrangements to prevent fire incidents and ensure that assistance reaches affected areas as quickly as possible. Puja committees have been instructed to comply with safety standards and prioritise the protection of devotees.
Fire Safety Mock Drills Conducted In Bhagalpur
In Bhagalpur, the Fire Service has conducted mock drills to familiarise young people with fire safety and emergency response.
During the exercises, participants received practical guidance on staying calm during a fire, moving towards safety, helping others without putting themselves at risk and seeking assistance from the Fire Department.
Officials also highlighted precautions such as using electrical equipment carefully, storing flammable materials safely and paying attention to potential fire hazards.
The mock drills were intended to improve public awareness and help residents respond more effectively during emergencies.
Fire Officials Visit Pandals To Train Volunteers
Sub-Divisional Fire Officer Sarwar Ravidas said department personnel were visiting puja pandals to train volunteers in safety and rescue measures for fire emergencies.
He said the aim was to ensure that organisers and volunteers understand how to respond appropriately if a fire breaks out during the celebrations.
The department’s preparations combine inspections, deployment of firefighting resources, monitoring and public awareness. Officials have urged puja committees to follow fire safety instructions so that devotees can celebrate Durga Puja in a safer environment.
