Chandigarh, November 9:- Chandigarh Fire & Rescue Services successfully managed 29 fire, rescue and other emergency calls during Diwali celebrations on November 8, ensuring a safe festive night with zero casualties and no injuries. The average response time of firefighting vehicles was recorded at an impressive 4.34 minutes, reflecting the department's high level of preparedness, operational efficiency and prompt response.

Most of the incidents involved minor fires in garbage heaps, dry grass and waste materials. In one unusual rescue operation, the fire personnel also rescued a cat, demonstrating their commitment to responding to every emergency.

To ensure comprehensive emergency coverage across the city, the Fire & Rescue Services divided Chandigarh into seven fire zones and strategically deployed firefighting vehicles at prominent markets and public gathering locations, including Sectors 15, 17, 19, 22 and 26, besides Manimajra. Special arrangements were also made by stationing dedicated fire vehicles at all 13 cracker-selling sites designated by the District Magistrate, UT Chandigarh.

Under the overall guidance of MC Commissioner Sh. Amit Kumar, IAS, all fire stations remained fully operational with adequate manpower, vehicles and firefighting equipment throughout the festive period.

As part of the comprehensive preparedness measures, leave of operational staff was restricted, firefighting vehicles and equipment were thoroughly checked, first-aid kits replenished and water-filling points inspected. A dedicated communication mechanism was also established to facilitate real-time coordination and ensure quick mobilisation of resources during emergencies.

A comparison of Diwali emergency calls over the past four years indicates 21 fire calls in 2023, 20 in 2024 and 17 in 2025, against 29 fire, rescue and other emergency calls attended in 2026. Despite the increased number of emergency calls, the department maintained an impressive average response time of just 4.34 minutes and ensured that no casualty or injury was reported.

The Municipal Corporation Chandigarh appreciated the dedication, alertness and professional commitment of firefighters and supporting personnel, whose coordinated efforts and round-the-clock vigilance ensured effective emergency management and contributed to a safe Diwali celebration across the City Beautiful.