Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Fire and Emergency Services is set to initiate a month-long statewide initiative starting September 15, aiming to identify and take action against industrial units, commercial establishments, and hospitals that do not possess valid Fire Safety Certificates, as stated by Chief Fire Officer (SAG) Debendra Kumar Swain on Monday.
This special operation will run until October 15 and is a response to numerous fire incidents in recent years that have led to significant loss of life and property. The department will primarily target establishments that are not adhering to essential fire safety regulations, according to officials.
Swain revealed that the Odisha government implemented the Odisha Fire Prevention and Fire Safety Rules, 2017, on September 26, 2017, under the Odisha Fire Service Act, 1993, aimed at safeguarding the public. These rules have been amended in 2019 and 2025 to enhance the fire safety framework.
A notable update from the 2025 amendment involves the engagement of licensed third-party agencies to conduct fire safety inspections. These agencies, designated as implementation bodies by the department, will assess various establishments, ensure compliance with safety regulations, and submit their findings on a specified portal.
“In light of the recent fire accidents and the resulting loss of life and property, we have decided to launch a statewide campaign to identify establishments operating without Fire Safety Certificates,” Swain stated during a press briefing.
Throughout this month-long campaign, the department plans to implement various strategies to boost fire safety compliance and enhance monitoring efforts across the state.
Additionally, training programs for Fire Safety Supervisors will be conducted to improve their expertise in fire prevention and emergency response.
A specialized Fire Safety Control Room will also be established to coordinate fire safety activities, along with a dedicated WhatsApp number to facilitate communication and provide fire safety services to the public.
The department is also looking to develop a fire safety database and mobile application to enhance monitoring, keep records, and make fire safety-related information more accessible.
As part of this initiative, a workshop will be held with representatives from various government departments and agencies, including the Works Department, Odisha Bridge and Construction Corporation (OBCC), Higher Education Department, School and Mass Education Department, Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC), Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA), Rural Development Department, and Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department.
Participants from both government and private sectors will engage in discussions regarding the operation of fire safety committees and adherence to established safety protocols.
The department emphasized that this campaign is designed not only to uncover violations but also to raise awareness about fire prevention and to ensure that institutions implement sufficient safety measures to avert preventable fire disasters.
Swain concluded by stating that the Fire and Emergency Services will collaborate with various departments and stakeholders to bolster fire safety readiness and ensure comprehensive compliance with the established regulations throughout Odisha.
