The Baddi-Barotiwala industrial hub in Himachal Pradesh is set to strengthen fire preparedness through comprehensive mapping and safety measures for industrial units. In a recent meeting, Baddi SDM Vivek Mahajan emphasized the importance of assessing fire risk and implementing effective fire safety protocols across industrial establishments. Mahajan suggested that industries be rated and mapped according to their fire risk levels, which would facilitate quick response and effective firefighting.

Key recommendations included installing fire hydrants throughout the region to increase firefighting capabilities. Since smaller units do not have sufficient space for fire-fighting equipment such as water tanks, it has been proposed to create cluster-based communal tanks supported by pooled resources from beneficiary industries. The management also assured that it will meet the need for land allocation for these facilities.

During the discussion, investors expressed concerns about delays in obtaining a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the Fire Department. Fire Officer Hemraj explained that these NOCs were issued in accordance with the guidelines of the National Construction Code, 2016.

Besides fire safety, other infrastructure and service improvements were also discussed. SDM highlighted the need for better transportation within the industrial zone, especially for workers and residents. It was decided to approach the Transport Department to introduce local buses on important routes to facilitate movement in the region.

The meeting also discussed the issue of the construction of a new bus stop, which was postponed due to the existing temporary bus stop being located far from the town and causing inconvenience to passengers. The administration has promised to expedite the bus stop project for easier accessibility.

Traffic regulation was another area of ​​focus where discussions took place on managing traffic flow and removing encroachments on Sai road. Issues like idle parking of trucks along important routes and traffic congestion at Vardhman Chowk, where six roads intersect, were discussed. Authorities have committed to working on solutions with relevant departments to improve traffic management and ease congestion.

Officials from Baddi-Barotiwala-Nalagarh Industrial Association, Baddi tehsildar and Fire Department attended the meeting and all expressed their commitment to strengthen infrastructure and security in the industrial area.