Desk Correspondent , New Delhi - The Delhi Fire Services (DFS) has urgently requested the Delhi government to address a severe manpower crisis, citing a shortage of over 6,600 personnel—amounting to a staggering 72.5% deficit against the required strength of 9,123. According to official documents, the current operational workforce stands at just 2,500 personnel across 71 active stations. The state home department has verbally assented to the expansion proposal, which aligns with an upcoming 25-year firefighting master plan aimed at modernizing infrastructure and ensuring public safety.

The current staffing numbers are calculated based on grueling 24-hour shifts currently undertaken by firefighters. However, the Fire Safety Council strongly recommends moving to an 8-hour shift model to reduce physical fatigue and boost operational efficiency. If the recommended 8-hour shift system is implemented, the required manpower would surge to 27,369 personnel, revealing a jaw-dropping 90.8% shortage. Furthermore, achieving Delhi’s full sanctioned capacity of 120 fire stations would ultimately require 48,000 operators under central government standards.

This acute deficit severely hampers response times, routine safety inspections, equipment maintenance, and vital training schedules. The strain peaks between April and August, when summer temperature spikes trigger frequent blazes in warehouses, factories, and dense residential colonies. Because emergency response cannot halt, firefighters are routinely redeployed immediately after grueling operations, navigating congested roads and illegal parking under immense physical strain. Chief Fire Officer AK Malik confirmed the proposal's submission, emphasizing that enhanced staffing is critical to establish a scientifically sustainable shift system and safeguard the expanding capital.