New Delhi: Delhi Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu on Monday proposed exploring the induction of former Agniveers into the Delhi Fire Services (DFS) to address manpower shortages, as the capital reviews its disaster preparedness in the aftermath of recent tragedies, including the Malviya Nagar fire that claimed 22 lives.
The suggestion was made during a meeting of the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), chaired by the Lieutenant Governor and attended by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, Home Minister Ashish Sood, Public Works Department Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh, senior police officials and top administrative officers.
The meeting focused on strengthening disaster response mechanisms, reviewing enforcement measures against illegal constructions, and assessing preparedness for the upcoming monsoon season.
In a post on X following the meeting, Sandhu said he had recommended examining the possibility of engaging former Agniveers to fill existing vacancies within the Delhi Fire Services and strengthen the department’s operational capacity.
The proposal comes at a time when concerns over fire safety and emergency response infrastructure have intensified following a series of incidents in the city. The devastating fire in Malviya Nagar, which killed 22 people, and the recent building collapse in the Saidulajab area that left six people dead, have prompted authorities to reassess enforcement and preparedness measures.
According to officials, the DDMA undertook a comprehensive review of ongoing operations against unauthorised buildings and the misuse of licences related to fire safety norms. The meeting also examined future preparedness strategies aimed at reducing risks associated with illegal construction and non-compliance with safety regulations.
The Delhi Government has already launched a citywide campaign against unauthorised construction following the recent incidents. Authorities are conducting inspections and enforcement drives to identify violations and ensure adherence to building and safety norms.
Sandhu emphasised that while Delhi’s disaster vulnerabilities present significant challenges, they also offer an opportunity to improve preparedness, enhance resilience and strengthen emergency response systems.
He stressed the need for balanced enforcement, stating that action against violations should not result in unnecessary hardship for ordinary residents. The Lieutenant Governor directed teams of officers constituted last week to submit their Action Taken Reports (ATRs) within stipulated timelines to ensure accountability and effective implementation of decisions.
The DDMA meeting also reviewed measures being taken to address heat-related emergencies, as Delhi continues to experience periods of extreme temperatures. Officials assessed the effectiveness of existing response mechanisms and preparedness plans aimed at protecting vulnerable populations during heatwave conditions.
With the monsoon season approaching, flood prevention and waterlogging management featured prominently in the discussions. Sandhu called for heightened vigilance and strict implementation of preventive measures to minimise disruption during heavy rainfall.
He urged departments to adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards flooding and ensure that all drainage and preparedness measures are fully operational before the onset of the monsoon.
The meeting underscored the administration’s broader focus on strengthening disaster management systems through improved coordination among agencies, stricter enforcement of safety regulations and enhanced emergency response capabilities.
Officials said the recommendations and decisions taken during the meeting are expected to guide the capital’s preparedness efforts in the coming months, with particular emphasis on fire safety, urban resilience, flood prevention and public safety.
