BMC to Build Mini-Fire Station in Malad's Appa Pada Slum Cluster After String of Fires

The Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB) has been instructed by the BMC to construct a mini-fire station in the Appa Pada slum cluster located in Malad (East). This decision comes after a series of fire incidents in the area. A 2000 sq ft plot at Buva Salvi Maidan has been identified for construction, and the project is expected to be completed within one and a half months, as per civic sources.

The Appa Pada area has experienced several fire incidents, starting in January. The second fire, which occurred on February 13 in Jamrishi Nagar within the same area, tragically resulted in the death of a 12-year-old boy. The most recent fire incident took place on March 13, destroying 2,000 huts and claiming another life. Due to the high population density and heavy traffic, fire tenders faced challenges reaching the spot promptly on the day of the incident. In response to these concerns, Vinod Mishra, a former corporator, wrote a letter to the civic authorities, urging them to construct a mini-fire station that could act as a first responder.

Upon receiving the demand for a mini-fire station, the P/North ward office wrote a letter to the Chief Fire Officer of MFB on May 11, urging them to evaluate the suggested location's feasibility and take appropriate action. Sanjay Manjrekar, Chief Fire Officer of MFB, confirmed that they have received the application and stated that once they acquire possession of the land, the construction of the mini-fire station will commence. Vinod Mishra, the ex-corporator, expressed his hope that the civic authorities would complete the work within the designated timeframe.

At present, Mumbai has a total of 35 fire stations and 19 mini-fire stations functioning under six fire command centers. The introduction of mini-fire stations aims to reduce response time and enhance the effectiveness of rescue operations. These mini-fire stations are equipped with compact fire tender machines, a small water tank, ladders, extinguishers, and rescue tools. The staff at these stations serve as first responders until additional machinery arrives from a regular fire station, if necessary.