Mumbai: FIRs will be lodged against the owners of illegally parked vehicles that obstruct firefighting or rescue operations if there’s major loss of life, injury or property damage reported at a fire or disaster site, warned BMC on Monday.Under a new directive, the fire officer will have to take a photo of the vehicle, along with its registration number, after completion of operations and with the approval of senior officials and lodge a police complaint. The direction was issued after a review meeting at the BMC chief’s office. In the past few years, the fire brigade has faced difficulties navigating roads blocked by illegally parked vehicles. Officials said the decision aims to serve as a deterrent and strengthen the effectiveness of rescue operations, where every minute is critical. “Unhindered access is crucial for a swift response,” an official said. Anticipating an increase in public complaints, BMC has also put a mechanism in place to handle reports from citizens. The fire brigade will forward them to the police station, traffic police and the ward office for action, with feedback to be shared with the complainant. During a recent blaze at Lokhandwala Township in Kandivli East, locals had alleged that illegal parking of autos inside the complex delayed the entry of fire engines. —Richa Pinto
