Thiruvananthapuram sees sharp rise in fire incidents amid soaring temperatures

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The capital district has reported a surge in fire incidents over the past few months, primarily due to rising temperatures and dry conditions. Between January and February 28, the fire and rescue services responded to 691 fire-related distress calls, contributing to a total of 1,551 cases in 2024 alone.

Ground fires, fueled by dry leaves, bushes, and improper waste disposal, remain the most common during summer. Electrical short circuits have led to a spike in car and building fires. Thiruvananthapuram and Chacka fire stations recorded the highest cases with 102 and 65 incidents, respectively.

District Fire Officer Sooraj S stated that Kerala Civil Defence volunteers are on standby, especially for hard-to-reach areas. Negligence, particularly burning waste in compounds, has contributed to several fires. Authorities are urging the public to use government-regulated waste disposal systems instead.

Fire stations are identifying hotspots, conducting fire audits, and ensuring firefighting systems are functional in buildings. Fire lines have also been created in forest areas as a precaution.

Educational campaigns are underway to raise public awareness, urging people to keep their surroundings clean and avoid carelessly discarding matchsticks or cigarette butts.

“Public cooperation is crucial to control fires during this intense summer season,” the DFO emphasized.

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