State authorities and industry experts collaborate to promote safety standards in Gujarat
Ahmedabad 24 August 2024: In a significant move to enhance public safety and mitigate the risk of electrical fires in Gujarat, the Gujarat State Fire Prevention Services (GSFPS), in collaboration with the International Copper Association India (ICA India), hosted an exclusive interactive session on “Electrical Fire Safety in Buildings” yesterdayin Ahmedabad.
This event marked the launch of a comprehensive initiative aimed at reducing electrical-related incidents and fostering a safer environment across the state’s buildings.The backdrop of the event was the alarming increase in fire incidents caused by electrical faults, which have become a significant concern in Gujarat.
The session was inaugurated by Shri Nalinkumar, Director of State Fire Prevention Services, Government of Gujarat, and Shri Amol Kalsekar, Director of Marketing at ICA India. At the session, Shri Nalinkumar remarked, “Our goal is to move towards ‘Zero Tolerance’ for electrical accidents. By adopting best practices and the latest technologies, we can create an accident-free environment and safeguard the lives and properties of our citizens.”
He also addressed the issues related to electrical fire safety in buildings and emphasized the importance of electrical fire safety in today’s context. He urged the audience to strictly adhere to state and national standards when designing buildings and to ensure high-quality work as responsible entrepreneurs.
Mr. Nilam B Doshi, Chairman, Confederation of Real Estate Developers Associations of India (CREDAI) said, “The collaboration between the Gujarat State Fire Prevention Services and the International Copper Association of India in conducting awareness programs is an initiative that should be carried out frequently. These sessions are crucial in addressing key issues faced by developers, especially concerning the allocation of plots for electrical infrastructure under TP (Town Planning) schemes.These awareness programs are immensely valuable for developers, consultants, and the wider public, as they play a vital role in enhancing fire safety standards.”
The experts highlighted the critical importance of adhering to Indian standards, codes, and regulations related to electrical safety, especially in the wake of recent fire disasters. Throughout the event, experts from the industry provided in-depth discussions on various aspects of electrical safety, exploring the root causes of electrical fires such as overloading, short circuits, and the use of inferior materials.
The interactive session was designed to bring together various government and non-government stakeholders on a single platform to reinforce the importance of standards compliance and to improve the fire prevention policy framework. Participants included representatives from the Town Planning Department, Chief Electrical Inspectorate Department, PWD, CREDAI members, licensed electrical contractors’ associations, and other key entities.
The session emphasized the importance of proactive measures, including the adoption of high-quality electrical components, regular inspections, and public awareness. The collaboration between GSFPS and ICA India is a step towards creating a culture of safety and prevention in Gujarat, ensuring that all stakeholders—from builders and developers to government agencies—are aligned in their efforts to reduce electrical fire incidents.
The event concluded with a commitment to continue this initiative through a series of sessions across Gujarat, aiming to educate and sensitize all stakeholders about the critical importance of electrical safety. This ongoing effort will play a pivotal role in transitioning Gujarat towards a safer future, reducing the incidence of electrical fires, and ensuring the well-being of its communities.
