State agencies gear up for mock safety drill

The state fire and emergency response department is gearing up for its first mock drill at Metro Rail stations once the service is inaugurated.

The purpose of fire drills in stations is to ensure that everyone knows how to get out safely and quickly in case of an emergency. People need to recognise the sound of the alarm.

“We will start conducting mock drills every three months for the initial two years and thereafter once every six years. This will help the public and the authorit- ies to be prepared in case of emergencies,” said the director general of fire, Rajiv Ratan.

Automatic fire detection and alarm systems, automatic sprinkler systems, portable fire extinguishers, gas separation systems etc, will be placed at strategic locations in all stations, said a senior fire officer.

“Metro Rail has built in fire safety measures with regard to protection, prevention, control and detection systems. High quality fire retardant building material, insulation of electrical wiring and instruments, built-in safety mechanisms etc are also being undertaken,” he said.

Platforms, stations, and staircases are designed for quick evacuation even under crowded conditions, said V. Papaiah, regional fire officer, Central.

Mr Ratan said all escalators will proceed downward during emergencies, and all fire protection equipment will be maintained in good condition as seen during inspection, along with usage instruction displayed near the equipment.

Every station will have one lakh litres of water in tanks and pump rooms will have sophisticated gadgets for fire control.