New Delhi: Lt Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu on Monday suggested to explore induction of former Agniveers to meet the staff crunch faced by the Delhi Fire Services (DFS), during a DDMA meeting held days after the Malviya Nagar fire tragedy that claimed 22 lives.
Sandhu chaired the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) meeting, which was attended by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, Home minister Ashish Sood, and PWD minister Parvesh Sahib Singh and top police and administrative officers of the Delhi government.
A comprehensive review was undertaken of the ongoing operations against illegal buildings, misuse of licenses with regard to fire safety, and future preparedness measures, Sandhu said.
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The Delhi government has launched a campaign against unauthorised construction following recent collapse of a building in Saidulajab area that claimed six lives and the Malviya Nagar fire tragedy.
In a post on X, Sandhu said that he suggested exploring engagement of ex-Agniveers (retired army personnel) to address existing vacancies to strengthen the Fire department's workforce.
The LG also emphasised that while Delhi's disaster vulnerabilities present significant challenges, they also offer an opportunity to strengthen preparedness, build resilience, and improve response systems.
At the same time, enforcement actions must not become a cause of harassment for ordinary residents, Sandhu said and directed teams the teams of officers constituted last week to submit their Action Taken Reports (ATRs) in a timely manner.
The meeting also reviewed heat-related disaster management measures and the status of monsoon preparedness. .
LG Sandhu also called for extra caution, strict implementation, and a zero-tolerance approach towards flooding during the forthcoming rainy season.
