City logs highest emergency calls in 6 years, 99% of fires in bldgs without valid certs

New Delhi: Delhi recorded 36,877 emergency calls in 2025-26, the highest in six years, with fire-related incidents accounting for 55.3% of the total. The remaining calls concerned animal and bird rescues and other emergencies.

An alarming 99% of fire incidents occurred in premises without valid fire safety certificates. Incidents were more frequent in unauthorised colonies and buildings where inadequate access often delayed fire tenders. Even in planned areas, fires were triggered by electricity consumption far exceeding sanctioned loads and the presence of combustible materials.

These details were presented at a meeting chaired by lieutenant governor TS Sandhu on Friday to review the functioning of Delhi Fire Service (DFS).

Officials said Sandhu directed a review of fire response times, particularly in densely populated colonies, industrial clusters and high-rise buildings. He also called for a zone-wise action plan with measurable targets and periodic monitoring.

The LG asked for effective coordination with traffic police, MCD, DDA and other agencies to ensure unobstructed access for fire tenders. He also called for periodic fire-risk mapping of vulnerable areas and mock drills,” an official said.