Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati has called on all higher education institutions in the state to conduct regular preventive fire safety audits. His suggestion comes at a time when fire-related incidents are becoming a growing concern across the country. The Governor stressed that universities and colleges should not only focus on academic excellence but also ensure that students, teachers, and staff are safe in their campuses. Fire audits, he said, must be carried out as a precautionary step to avoid tragic accidents.
I find this topic important because fire safety in educational institutions is often overlooked. We mostly talk about exam results, new courses, and placements, but rarely discuss whether students are learning in a safe environment. In the past, India has witnessed multiple incidents where fires in hospitals, coaching centres, or hostels have claimed many lives. These accidents underline the urgent need for preventive measures. By writing on this subject, I want to highlight how safety should become a non-negotiable part of education infrastructure. If implemented well, the Governor’s suggestion can push institutions to become more responsible and create campuses where parents and students can feel secure.
Why fire audits are necessary in colleges and universities
Higher education campuses usually have crowded lecture halls, libraries, hostels, and laboratories with electrical equipment. A single short circuit or mishandling of chemicals can trigger a fire. Preventive fire audits can help in:
- Identifying faulty wiring, outdated equipment, or blocked exits
- Training staff and students on emergency response
- Ensuring proper installation of fire extinguishers and alarms
- Reducing risks during cultural events or examinations when campuses are overcrowded
Current gaps in safety infrastructure
Many institutions, especially government colleges and smaller private universities, do not have adequate fire safety systems. Some hostels lack basic emergency exits, while others do not conduct fire drills at all. Often, fire extinguishers are installed just to meet inspection requirements but are not functional when actually needed. Such gaps show why preventive audits, conducted regularly, can be a lifesaving practice.
Steps institutions can take
To make campuses safer, colleges and universities in Odisha and across India can adopt these measures:
- Carry out third-party fire safety audits every year
- Install functional fire hydrants, alarms, and smoke detectors
- Conduct mock drills involving students and staff
- Create a campus disaster management committee
- Ensure laboratories follow strict safety protocols
