With the mercury soaring in Delhi, the city is facing a concerning uptick in fire incidents, as reported by fire officials. The data from Jan 1 to April 6 paints a stark picture, revealing a 10% increase in fire incidents compared to the previous year. In 2024, there were 4,026 fire incidents during this period, whereas the number surged to 4,432 in 2025. These statistics underscore the growing threat posed by fires in the city.
The numbers for the first four months of the year show a concerning trend. In January 2025, 938 fire incidents were reported, a number that escalated to 1,076 in February and peaked at 1,809 in March. As of April 6, there were already 609 fire incidents recorded. To put this into perspective, during the same period in 2024, there were 1,204 incidents in January, 1,032 in February, 1,328 in March, and 462 up to April 6. While the overall number of incidents seems to be on the rise, there is some relief in the decreased fatalities, dropping from 46 in 2024 to 20 in 2025. However, the injury count remains a concern, with 141 people affected in 2025 compared to 166 in 2024.
Delhi Fire Services director Atul Garg shed light on the primary reasons behind the surge in fire incidents, particularly in residential areas. Garg pointed out that many residents fail to upgrade their wiring to accommodate new electrical appliances, leading to overloading and short circuits. This negligence, compounded by the presence of combustible materials such as gas cylinders, curtains, and plastic items, creates a volatile environment where a small spark can quickly escalate into a devastating fire. Garg also highlighted the inherent risks involved in tackling such fires, emphasizing the potential for gas cylinder explosions during firefighting efforts.
Types of Places Affected
A breakdown of the types of places that experienced fires in 2025 sheds further light on the situation. Residential areas bore the brunt of the incidents, with a staggering 1,045 fires reported in such locations. Industrial areas saw 87 fires, while godowns and JJ clusters reported 49 and 35 incidents, respectively. Educational institutions, hospitals, and nursing homes also fell victim to fires, with 18, 3, and 1 incidents recorded, respectively. Additionally, 1,404 garbage fires were reported, underscoring the urgent need for improved waste management practices in the city.
The summer surge in fire incidents can be attributed to a combination of factors, as explained by fire officials. The rising temperatures create a conducive environment for fires, exacerbated by the increased use of electrical equipment post-winter. This heightened demand puts additional strain on the electrical systems, increasing the risk of electrical malfunctions and sparking fires. Moreover, the introduction of new equipment in factories and homes further strains the existing electrical infrastructure, raising the likelihood of incidents.
Improper maintenance of equipment and wiring emerges as a key contributing factor to the escalating fire incidents, according to officials. The lack of upkeep can lead to electrical faults and sparks, setting the stage for potential fires. Notably, the rapid spread of fires in the summer is attributed to the soaring temperatures, which fuel the flames and facilitate their rapid expansion. The intense heat acts as a catalyst, propelling the fire forward uncontrollably, posing a significant challenge to firefighting efforts.
In conclusion, the surge in fire incidents in Delhi serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety measures and preventive actions. As the city grapples with escalating temperatures and increased fire risks, it is imperative for residents and authorities to prioritize safety protocols and vigilance to mitigate the threat posed by fires. By addressing underlying causes such as faulty wiring, inadequate maintenance, and poor waste management, Delhi can work towards creating a safer environment for its inhabitants, reducing the incidence of devastating fires.
