116 fire incidents took place in 4 months in Jamshedpur
Narrow lanes, illegal constructions increase risk of major tragedy
PNS
Jamshedpur
A sharp rise in fire incidents across Jamshedpur has exposed glaring gaps in the city’s fire safety preparedness, with experts warning that a major disaster could occur if immediate corrective measures are not taken. According to Fire Department data, the city recorded 116 fire incidents between January and April this year, resulting in property losses estimated at nearly ₹1.65 crore.
Of the total incidents, 88 were reported under the Golmuri-Aganshama fire station jurisdiction, while 28 occurred in the Mango area. The increasing frequency of fires has intensified concerns over safety violations in hotels, restaurants, commercial establishments and multi-story buildings across the city.
Fire safety experts and residents have expressed concern that numerous commercial establishments continue to operate without adequate safety measures. Across the jurisdictions of Jamshedpur Notified Area Committee (JNAC), Mango Municipal Corporation (MMC) and Jugsalai Nagar Parishad, several buildings are located in narrow lanes that are difficult for fire tenders to access during emergencies.
In the JNAC area alone, more than 122 hotels are reportedly operational, while the number of hotels and restaurants combined exceeds 300. Sources indicate that several multi-story buildings are utilizing basements for commercial activities despite concerns regarding emergency access and fire safety compliance.
In Mango, particularly along Dimna Road, Old Purulia Road and the NH-33 corridor, numerous hotels, marriage halls and restaurants are reportedly operating without complete fire safety clearances. Similar concerns have been raised regarding several establishments in Jugsalai, where congested lanes and closely packed structures pose additional challenges during emergencies.
The fire that broke out at the warehouse of New Gangour Sweets in Jugsalai on May 29 highlighted the difficulties faced by emergency responders. Due to the narrow approach road, fire tenders were unable to reach the spot directly. Firefighters had to deploy hoses from a considerable distance and route them across adjoining rooftops before bringing the blaze under control.
The incident created panic in the locality and filled nearby residential buildings with thick smoke, raising concerns about the city’s preparedness to handle larger emergencies.
Questions are also being raised over the pace of fire safety audits and enforcement measures. Following directions issued by the Jharkhand High Court in 2025, civic bodies initiated inspections of schools, colleges, hospitals, cinema halls and high-rise buildings. Show-cause notices were reportedly served to several establishments found violating norms, and action was taken against a few illegal structures.
However, officials acknowledge that a comprehensive citywide audit is yet to be completed, while regular inspections and strict enforcement remain limited.
The challenge is further compounded by shortages of manpower and equipment. Golmuri Fire Station currently operates with only five fire tenders and a limited workforce, while the Mango Fire Centre functions with just two fire tenders and a small team of personnel.
Officials admit that existing resources are under significant pressure due to the city’s rapid urban expansion and increasing number of high-rise structures.
Golmuri Fire Station In-charge Rama Pravesh Ojha stated that inspection teams are deployed to markets, residential complexes, hospitals, hotels and other establishments whenever directed by the district administration. Reports are prepared and submitted to senior authorities, and further action is taken based on administrative orders.
