Enhanced fire-preparedness for Baddi-Barotiwala industrial area
The Baddi-Barotiwala industrial hub in Himachal Pradesh is set to strengthen fire-preparedness through comprehensive mapping and safety measures for industrial units. At a recent meeting, Baddi SDM Vivek Mahajan emphasised the importance of assessing fire risk across industrial establishments and implementing effective fire-safety protocols. Mahajan recommended that industries should be rated and mapped according to their fire risk level, which would facilitate swift response and effective firefighting.
Among key suggestions was the installation of fire hydrants throughout the area to boost firefighting capabilities. Since smaller units lack adequate space for fire-fighting equipment such as water tanks, it was proposed to create cluster-based common tanks, supported by pooled resources from beneficiary industries. The administration also assured to address the need for land allocation for these facilities.
During the discussion, investors raised concerns about delays in obtaining no-objection certificates (NOCs) from the Fire Department. Fire Officer Hemraj clarified that these NOCs are issued in compliance with the guidelines of the National Building Code, 2016.
In addition to fire safety, other infrastructure and service improvements were discussed. The SDM highlighted the need for better transportation within the industrial area, particularly for workers and residents. It was decided to approach the Transport Department to introduce local buses on key routes to ease movement in the area.
The meeting also addressed the issue of the new bus stand’s construction, which has been delayed, with the current temporary bus stand located far from the town, causing inconvenience to commuters. The administration pledged to expedite the bus stand project for easier accessibility.
Traffic regulation was another area of focus, with discussions on managing traffic flow and removing encroachments on the Sai road. Issues such as idle truck parking along key routes and congestion at Vardhman Chowk, where six roads intersect, were discussed. The authorities committed to working on solutions with relevant departments to enhance traffic management and ease congestion.
The meeting was attended by officials from the Baddi-Barotiwala-Nalagarh Industries Association, the tehsildar of Baddi, and the Fire Department, all of whom voiced their commitment to strengthening infrastructure and safety in the industrial region.
