A recent fire at an unoccupied apartment in the naval residential quarters of Kacheripady has raised urgent concerns regarding fire safety in older high-rise buildings across Kochi. The incident has prompted renewed calls for the acquisition of advanced firefighting equipment, particularly an aerial ladder platform, which is currently lacking in the Kerala Fire and Rescue Services.
Firefighters involved in Kacheripady operation faced significant challenges due to the absence of internal firefighting systems. They had to transport water hoses up to the 10th floor, as building lacked essential fire hydrants and landing valves. The situation was exacerbated by the presence of garbage in unused apartment,which intensified the blaze,according to fire and rescue sources.
Accessibility issues further complicated the rescue efforts. Many older high-rise buildings in Kochi are hindered by narrow approach roads and insufficient open spaces, making it difficult for fire engines and rescue equipment to reach the scene swiftly. These challenges primarily affect structures built before the implementation of the Kerala Municipality Building Rules (KMBR) in 1984, which mandated firefighting measures for high-rises .
Aerial Ladder Platform
The Kacheripady fire has reignited discussions about the need for an aerial ladder platform—a specialized firefighting vehicle designed to conduct rescue operations at significant heights. Such equipment enables firefighters to reach individuals trapped on upper floors and to deploy water or foam from elevated positions . Despite its necessity,top officials in the Kerala Fire and Rescue Services have confirmed that the department currently lacks this critical apparatus.
“The equipment is essential for the force,especially in a city like Kochi where both residential and commercial high-rises are increasing,” stated a Fire and Rescue Services officer who has participated in numerous operations in the city. The process to procure this high-value equipment is reportedly underway, as officials recognize its importance in enhancing firefighting capabilities.
While incidents of high-rise fires in Kerala are less frequent compared to metropolitan areas like Mumbai and Chennai,where older multi-storey buildings are prevalent,the Kacheripady fire serves as stark reminder of the vulnerabilities present in Kochi’s aging infrastructure. Senior officers from the Fire and Rescue Services noted that annual inspections are conducted to assess firefighting arrangements in high-rises,and non-compliant owners receive notices to address safety deficiencies.
The recent incident underscores the pressing need for improved fire safety measures in Kochi,particularly as the city continues to expand its skyline with new residential and commercial developments.
