Anupamaa set fire, what we can we do to avoid future mishaps?

 

Anupamaa set  fire,  what we can we do to avoid future mishaps

Following today's (June 23, 2025) fire on the Anupamaa set in Mumbai’s Film City, which fortunately caused no injuries, here is a concise outline of essential fire safety norms for India, particularly for high-risk areas like film studios:

1. **Strict Compliance with the National Building Code (NBC) 2016**

   - **Enforcement:** Make Part 4 of the NBC (Fire and Life Safety) mandatory for all structures, including temporary film sets.

   - **Requirements:**

     - Utilize fire-resistant materials with a 120-minute fire rating and non-combustible props.

     - Ensure multiple, unobstructed exits and clearly marked evacuation routes.

     - Install and maintain smoke detectors, alarms, sprinklers, and extinguishers regularly.

     - Apply fire-retardant coatings to any flammable materials used in sets.

2. **Regular Fire Safety Audits**

   - **Frequency:** Conduct certified audits on a yearly or biannual basis.

   - **Focus:** Assess risks such as electrical faults and the presence of flammable items, verify equipment, and ensure compliance with the NBC.

   - **Consequences:** Impose fines, revoke licenses, or close studios for violations.

   - **Studios:** Evaluate temporary setups, lighting systems, and pyrotechnic safety.

3. **Robust Enforcement Mechanisms**

   - **State Role:** Local authorities must enforce the NBC through state-specific bylaws.

   - **Fire NOC:** Obtain a valid Fire No Objection Certificate before commencing operations.

   - **Inspections:** Conduct surprise checks by fire authorities to ensure compliance.

   - **Accountability:** Hold owners and officials accountable for negligence, referring to past incidents like the Uphaar Cinema fire.

4. **Upgraded Fire Services**

   - **Equipment:** Provide modern tools, including high-pressure pumps and aerial ladders.

   - **Training:** Train firefighters and studio staff in handling electrical and chemical fires.

   - **Response Plans:** Coordinate with local bodies to ensure faster emergency response.

   - **Technology:** Implement real-time monitoring systems for exits and potential hazards.

5. **Awareness and Training**

   - **Education:** Promote fire safety education in schools and conduct regular workplace drills.

   - **Studio Staff:** Train personnel on the proper use of extinguishers and evacuation protocols.

   - **Campaigns:** Raise awareness about safety compliance in high-risk industries such as film production.

6. **Film Studio-Specific Rules**

   - **Electrical Systems:** Enforce the use of certified wiring to prevent short circuits.

   - **Pyrotechnics:** Require permits and trained handlers in accordance with the Explosives Act.

   - **Hazardous Materials:** Regulate the storage of oxygen cylinders and chemicals per PESO guidelines.

   - **Temporary Sets:** Treat temporary sets as assembly buildings, mandating fire-resistant materials and clearly marked exits.

7. **Lessons from Past Incidents**

   - Fires like the one on the Anupamaa set, the TRP Game Zone fire in Rajkot, and incidents in Delhi hospitals highlight gaps in compliance and enforcement.

   - **Solutions:**

     - Adopt a uniform national fire code.

     - Adhere to National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) guidelines regarding protected exits and evacuation drills.

     - Emulate strict enforcement models from countries like Singapore.

8. **Policy and Funding**

   - **Budget:** Allocate funds to modernize fire services and support local urban bodies (ULBs).

   - **Regulations:** Require fire safety certifications for all structures.

   - **Incentives:** Offer insurance discounts for buildings that comply with safety regulations.

**Summary**

The Anupamaa fire incident reveals significant possible gaps in fire safety, particularly concerning temporary setups. India needs to ensure mandatory compliance with the NBC, conduct regular audits, upgrade fire services, and promote fire safety awareness to address negligence and inadequate enforcement, thereby preventing future incidents.