Ind vs. Eng ODI: Fire safety being overhauled at Barabati Stadium sans permanent measures

The historic Barabati Stadium in Cuttack is set to become the centre of attention as it hosts a major international cricket match between India and England on February 9. However, an overhaul of the fire safety measures was started on Saturday and is underway to prevent any untoward incident of inferno in the stadium during the upcoming sports meet.

Despite the anticipation surrounding the event, there are mounting concerns regarding the adequacy of the stadium’s fire safety measures.

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The Director General (DG) of Fire Services department has voiced concerns to the Additional Chief Secretary, highlighting the absence of permanent fire safety measures at Barabati. In response, the Odisha Cricket Association (OCA), in partnership with local police and fire fighting authorities, is working diligently to address the issue.

A comprehensive fire safety plan is in development, involving the deployment of 180 fire personnel, eight fire fighting vehicles, and fire extinguishers, which will be strategically placed in each gallery. The risk of short circuits is being mitigated by updating the outdated air conditioning units in critical areas, including press, corporate, and VIP boxes.

Ensuring electrical safety is a priority, with checks and certifications being conducted for areas equipped with the digital panels and transformers. Temporary emergency exits are recommended for key sections such as the conference hall, new pavilion, and corporate leased spaces.

The spotlight on fire safety was intensified when it was announced that the India-England second one-day international (ODI) would be hosted at Barabati. An evaluation in 2022 had already brought the issue of missing permanent safety systems to the fore, necessitating urgent improvements.

“Fire personnel equipped with extinguishers will be deployed in each of the galleries. Fire fighting units will also be pressed into service at parking slots,” fire officer TK Babu said.

“Problems are there. However, necessary efforts should be made to resolve the issues. OCA should be careful in this regard,” sports journalist Sambit Mohapatra said to OTV.

As this marks the first ODI cricket match at Barabati Stadium in nearly five years, efforts by the State sporting bodies, alongside police and fire departments, are in full swing to ensure a successful and safe event.

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Particular focus is on the removal of all obsolete equipment and the implementation of ample safety measures to accommodate a crowd of 45,000 enthusiastic spectators.

Barabati Stadium last witnessed an ODI on December 22, 2019. It was played between India and West Indies. An ODI has returned to the stadium after a long gap.

Reported By: Laxminarayan Kanungo, Debasish Mohanty