CHANDIGARH, Dec. 17 -- Warning that fire safety preparedness in Haryana's urban centres remains alarmingly inadequate, the Haryana Human Rights Commission (HHRC) has expressed anguish over the continued delay in procuring hydraulic platforms and turn-table ladders required for fire-fighting operations in high-rise and densely populated areas, questioning whether the state government is waiting for a major tragedy before acting.

Taking cognizance of the alarming deficiencies in fire safety arrangements across the state, the HHRC in a suo motu case has expressed deep concern over the five-year delay in procuring critical equipment such as hydraulic platforms and turn-table ladders. The commission has unequivocally stated that such prolonge...