Suvendu Adhikari Calls for Expansion of Fire Services in West Bengal

Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, has raised concerns over the inadequacy of fire service stations in the state. Highlighting the recent devastating fire at Khidirpur market, Adhikari is pushing for a substantial increase in fire stations to tackle blaze incidents more effectively.

Currently, West Bengal has only 130 fire stations, while at least 2,000 are needed, according to Adhikari. Responding to his call in the assembly, Urban Development Minister Firhad Hakim assured that the state government has formed a committee to devise a standard operating procedure (SOP) aimed at preventing such tragedies.

Amidst speculations of sabotage in recent fire incidents, Hakim dismissed such claims, stating that no unapproved construction has been identified at fire-affected sites. Meanwhile, the focus remains on establishing preventive measures and raising public awareness on safety protocols to minimize future risks.

(With inputs from agencies.)