KOLKATA: Police and fire department officials on Saturday carried out a fire safety compliance check in the markets of Burrabazar and held a workshop for traders on how to respond in case a blaze breaks out.
The workshop was held at Satyanarayan AC market, which was once gutted 15 years ago. The exercise was attended by representatives of several markets, including Rajakatra, Nandaram and Kajaria.
“Markets are gradually reopening and rush is also increasing. We have decided to carry out checks in Burrabazar markets and also share measures to help traders safeguard their lives and livelihoods,” said a senior fire department officer.
The fire team demonstrated how to tackle different kinds of fire. “We shared the information with traders and checked their resources,” said the officer.
“Some small steps, like keeping the wiring in good shape and not allowing cooking and smoking inside the markets, can prevent fire incidents by half,” said a cop. Market committees said they had either complied with fire safety guidelines or were in the process. “Most markets here are over 100 years old. We don’t have space for big water reservoirs. We will consult the fire department to find a way out,” said the secretary of a market in Burrabazar.
