New Delhi, June 14 (IANS) Delhi BJP President Harsh Malhotra on Sunday expressed concern over the increasing incidents of fire in Delhi and appealed to citizens to remain vigilant while supplementing efforts of the city’s daring fire-fighters.

Malhotra said, “I extend my appreciation on behalf of all Delhi residents to the Fire Brigade personnel who safely rescued a 75-year-old woman trapped on the second floor amid a massive fire and exploding gas cylinders in Kalkaji.”

He said that early Sunday morning, a fire broke out in a building in Kalkaji, which also caused damage to the adjacent building. However, the timely arrival of the Fire Brigade and the relief efforts coordinated by MCD Central Zone Chairperson Yogita Singh helped avert a major tragedy.

Malhotra reiterated his appreciation for the Fire Brigade personnel who risked their lives to rescue the elderly woman trapped on the second floor during the fire.

The Delhi BJP President said, “We do not want to politicise a serious issue like fire incident, but it is unfortunate that the Kalkaji MLA Atishi Marlena, who shed crocodile tears over the Hauz Rani accident outside Max Hospital just five days ago, did not reach the accident site in her own constituency even after several hours.”

He said that due to rising temperatures during both summer and winter conditions, the load on electrical appliances such as coolers, ACs, microwaves, etc. increases, putting additional pressure on old electrical wiring, which can become a serious safety hazard.

He appealed to Delhi residents to remain cautious about fire safety, get the wiring of their homes, offices, shops, restaurants, etc. inspected, ensure regular servicing of AC units and car battery charging points, and switch off unnecessary electrical points while sleeping or when leaving their homes.

Malhotra’s praise for the firemen comes close to a recent event where Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta paid tributes to those who lost their lives in the devastating fire at Hauz Rani in Malviya Nagar and the tragic building collapse in Saidulajab, Saket, announcing an ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh to the family members of each of the victims.

She also honoured courageous citizens, police personnel, administrative officials and rescue workers who put their own lives at risk to save others.

They were presented with commendation certificates and cheques of Rs 21,000 each in recognition of their efforts.

–IANS

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