Why Indian High-Rise Buildings Are Better Equipped to Prevent Hong Kong-Like Fire Disasters

The recent catastrophic fire in a Hong Kong high-rise has raised serious questions about building safety standards in India. NDTV conducted an on-site investigation at Noida's Exotica Fresco Society to evaluate whether Indian high-rises are prepared for similar emergencies. The investigation revealed a mixed picture of preparedness, with some positive measures in place but ongoing challenges.

Residents of Exotica Fresco Society expressed confidence in their emergency preparedness systems. The residential complex consists of ten towers—eight reaching 18 floors and two with 14 floors. According to residents, the society maintains three different types of fire extinguishers, including CO2 and foam varieties.

The society has implemented specialized foam-making materials specifically designed for diesel generator fires. Their comprehensive fire safety infrastructure includes three distinct pump systems: jockey pumps, sprinklers, and main hydrants, along with a dedicated fire engine. Residents explained that the system works automatically, with sprinklers activating when temperatures reach 68 degrees. They noted that if power fails, a backup diesel pump engages to maintain fire suppression capabilities.

Residents confidently stated their preparedness for emergencies similar to the Hong Kong incident.

Pradeep Kumar, Chief Fire Officer of Gautam Buddha Nagar, shared his professional assessment with NDTV. He emphasized that structural differences make a Hong Kong-type incident less likely in India. "In Hong Kong, thermocol insulation is machine-applied throughout buildings. They also use Chinese nets and bamboo scaffolding which can accelerate fire spread. In contrast, our buildings utilize iron scaffolding, making fire containment more manageable," he explained.

Kumar highlighted that Indian buildings incorporate firefighting infrastructure, including emergency staircases, designed to facilitate evacuation and rescue operations.

The fire department is enhancing its capabilities with the acquisition of a 72-meter hydraulic ladder, jointly funded by Greater Noida, Noida, and the Yamuna Authority, each contributing Rs 6 crore. Kumar added that they already possess four hydraulic articulating towers (42-meter and 36-meter) capable of delivering water up to 50 meters. He emphasized that his team regularly conducts mock drills in residential societies to ensure emergency preparedness.

Despite the confidence displayed by some societies like Exotica Fresco, the situation across Noida and Greater Noida presents concerning gaps. Reports from the Gautam Buddha Nagar Fire Department reveal that notices were issued to 357 high-rise societies for non-functional firefighting equipment. A recent safety audit identified 131 societies lacking adequate fire safety measures, creating significant risks for residents. These societies need urgent improvements to their systems, regular safety audits, and collaborative mock drills with fire authorities to prevent disasters.

While society representatives and fire officials express confidence in their readiness, safety experts stress the importance of continuous maintenance and awareness. The Hong Kong tragedy serves as a powerful reminder that effective fire prevention in high-rise buildings requires not just equipment installation but also proper training and rapid emergency response capabilities.