With Tihar (the festival of lights) around the corner, the Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) launched a weeklong fire protection and safety awareness programme in the Valley on Saturday.

Pointing to recent fire-related incidents in the Valley, KMC Chief and Executive Officer Rudra Singh Tamang said the metropolis came up with an idea to raise awareness among people about fire hazards, mostly during Tihar.

As many as 10 fire related incidents, many of them caused due to minor human error, were reported in a single day in the Valley while illuminating their houses with lights during the festival.

“If we know the significance of fire, we can avoid great catastrophe with simple precautions,” Tamang said, stressing on the need to hold such awareness programmes throughout the year rather that just during the Tihar festival.   

Addressing the programme held at Juddha Fire Brigade Office (JFBO) in the Capital, chief at office Kirshor Kumar Bhattrai said fire-related incidents are on the rise due to human error. “As Tihar is festival of lights, people need to be alert about fire related incidents. That’s why we have taken up this initiative,” he said.

Representative of 41 organisations, including volunteers from Fire Brigade Office, KMC officials, representatives from Nepal Red Cross, Nepal Scout, Ward Disaster Management Committee and local clubs were in attendance on the inaugural day of the awareness programme. An awareness rally was also held to mark the occasion.