There is no specific intelligence regarding any sabotage threat surrounding Sharadiya Durga Puja, but the Fire Service and Civil Defence is fully prepared to handle any situation, Director General Brigadier General Sultanul Afrain Zunaid has said.
He added that necessary instructions have been issued to puja pavilion organisers through 538 fire stations across the country to prevent fire accidents.
Speaking at a press conference on fire safety during Sharadiya Durga Puja held at the Fire Service and Civil Defence Department headquarters at around 12:15pm on Saturday, the Director General briefed the media on security and safety preparations.
Referring to reports circulating on social media and in news outlets regarding the potential activities of banned organisations, the director general noted that while such information has surfaced, he has received no specific threat details. He affirmed that law enforcement agencies are adequately prepared and expressed confidence that any attempt at ill-intended activities would fail to succeed.
Detailing fire safety preparations, he explained that key fire risks- such as faulty electrical connections, excessive electrical loads, and cooking areas during the construction of temporary pavilions- were identified by analysing fire incidents from past festivals. Organisers of puja pavilions are being alerted based on these identified risks.
Officers-in-charge at 538 fire stations have already contacted local puja pavilion committees in their respective areas, inspected the mandaps, checked fire safety arrangements, and advised organisers on how to initially control fires in the event of an accident. Emergency hotline numbers have also been provided to ensure rapid Fire Service assistance.
The director general advised mandap committees to appoint dedicated fire safety monitors who will remain on alert round-the-clock. In the event of an accident, these individuals can immediately notify people at the venue and alert the Fire Service, enabling prompt initial fire control and minimising damage.
Firefighting equipment and personnel are being stationed at strategic locations based on demand, with arrangements made in certain areas to keep equipment and staff relatively closer to pavilions at the request of organisers.
Coordination has been established with various intelligence agencies and law enforcement forces, while control rooms at the department’s headquarters and divisional levels are prepared to provide coordination and emergency support.
Emphasising collective responsibility, the director general stressed that Fire Service preparations alone are not sufficient, urging organisers, visitors, and the public to remain vigilant, particularly when using incense (dhup), lamps (pradip), and electrical equipment. Prompt reporting of any accident will allow fire crews to reach the scene quickly to reduce loss of life and property.
Reiterating that the Fire Service remains ready to tackle fire incidents and disasters at all times, he highlighted that cooperation from all stakeholders and timely reporting of information are vital. He expressed optimism that Sharadiya Durga Puja can be celebrated safely and smoothly through combined efforts.
