Over the past eight years, the Yogi government has consistently prioritized the convenience of the common citizen. As a result, every sector in Uttar Pradesh has witnessed rapid and positive transformation. Among these, fire services have seen a complete overhaul. The services have gained a new identity and direction under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

Modernised Digitised department

In accordance to CM’s instructions, the fire department has been modernised, digitised. Furthermore, its standards simplified to ensure citizens no longer face hardships in accessing fire-related services. The government has made the entire NOC process online. They have also introduced practical fire safety norms for low-rise buildings. Implemented simplified structural standards, strengthening Ease of Doing Business across the state.

ADG Fire services

ADG Fire Services, Padmaja Chauhan, noted that CM Yogi has reformed every area of governance in the state. The fire services now align with the goals of transparency, efficiency, and public interest. She said, “Before 2017, obtaining a Fire NOC was a time-consuming and non-transparent process, often forcing applicants to visit the department repeatedly. In 2018, CM Yogi made the Fire NOC process fully online for the first time in the state, enabling citizens to apply from home. A 15-day time limit was set for issuing the NOC, with applicants informed of any objections within a week.”

In 2022, practical standards were introduced for low-rise buildings. The Uttar Pradesh Fire and Emergency Services Act-2022 empowered the department to deliver more effective emergency services. In 2023, a Single Window Portal simplified the online NOC application process, This significantly eased procedures for industries and entrepreneurs. In 2024, the Uttar Pradesh Fire and Emergency Services Rules-2024 resolved long-standing issues. This was done by replacing rigid, outdated provisions with practical solutions.

Major Problems Solved by Fire and Emergency Services

1. Discrepancies between fire safety and building authority setback rules have been eliminated. Now, NOC is issued based on “access to building”. This has ensured smooth fire vehicle entry, removing the need for measuring open spaces around structures.

2. Earlier, NOCs were withheld due to rigid stair width norms. An occupant load-based system now allows for flexibility, considering total stair volume and practicality.

3. Standards have been made practical by defining road width requirements, This is done based on the minimum necessary width for fire tenders, enabling compliance even in older, narrower city areas.

4. Applicants can now fulfill water storage requirements through overhead or underground tanks, as long as the total volume is met, addressing space constraints.

Conventional emergency unit

The fire department has evolved from a conventional emergency unit to a symbol of good governance, enhanced civic services, and technological progress. Under CM Yogi’s leadership, this transformation has reinforced public trust. It has also improved service delivery, and significantly advanced Uttar Pradesh’s position in Ease of Living and Ease of Doing Business.

Furthermore to enhance emergency response and ensure public safety, the Yogi government is also working towards departmental restructuring. They have also created new posts, strengthening the department’s manpower and operational efficiency.