Underpass fire

However, the incident is a harsh reminder of the fact that our fire preparedness is poor even in a place like a subterranean underpass where a fire can cause havoc. The fire broke out at a time when not many people were passing through the underpass. So there was no stampede and the shopkeepers got the time and space to move to safety. But what is the guarantee that such accidents will not take place during the busy hours? Is there any arrangement for evacuating the trapped people in case of emergency? Regrettably, these questions can only be asked but the authorities concerned cannot possibly provide satisfactory answers.

The fire incident has also brought into light some serious flaws insofar as maintenance of the underpass is concerned. It has been reported that there was no supply of electricity in it for five consecutive days! That alone could make it a dangerous place. A dark underground passage is surely not a safe place for a huge number of pedestrians rushing through it. So accidents of other types can take place any time if the underpass is kept open without electricity.

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Reports carried by the press also indicate that the underpasses in the city are not serving the purpose that they were built for. People cannot feel comfortable if underpasses and overbridges become a habitat for hawkers and beggars, not to mention the drug addicts and muggers.

Not that the idea of constructing the underpasses was bad in itself. Obviously, the plan was to ease traffic jam and ensure that pedestrians could safely move across the roads at busy places. But what the authorities do not appear to have taken into consideration is that the undepasses had to be maintained properly. Poor visibility, presence of undesirable elements and lack of safety measures against hazards like fire are causes for concern that the DCC authorities must address immediately in the interest of citizens.