Jaipur, Nov. 4 -- Rajasthan State Human Rights Commission (RSHRC) has raised serious concerns over fire safety arrangements in Jaipur's densely populated markets ahead of Diwali, observing that inadequate firefighting infrastructure and the storage and sale of firecrackers in congested commercial areas could pose a major threat to public safety. Taking cognisance of concerns regarding fire hazards arising from alleged unauthorised constructions in different parts of Jaipur, a single-member bench headed by commission chairman Justice GR Moolchandani, in an order dated November 2, directed senior administrative, police and municipal officials to explain the city's preparedness to deal with fire emergencies. The commission noted that the issue was not limited to a particular property or locality but concerned the entire city, which attracts thousands of tourists every day and has densely populated commercial and residential complexes, including heritage havelis. During the proceedings, Jaipur's fire officer, Shubham Sharma, submitted a factual report stating that the premises under consideration did not have a fire safety no-objection certificate (NOC) and notices had been issued in this regard. Referring to a recent fire at Purushottamji Ka Katla near Badi Chaupar, the commission observed that adequate water arrangements for firefighting were not available at the site. It further noted that the nearest fire station at Ghata Gate was around two to two-and-a-half kilometres away. The availability of water in fire tenders stationed there was also questioned, with officials reportedly unable to provide a clear explanation during the proceedings. The commission expressed concern over the presence of firecracker shops in densely populated markets despite the licences issued for their operation. It specifically mentioned Johari Bazaar, Tripolia Bazaar, Kishanpole Bazaar, Chandpole Bazaar, Badi Chaupar, Ramganj Bazaar and Indira Bazaar, observing that shops selling large quantities of firecrackers were operating openly in these areas. Referring to previous fire incidents, the commission cited the deaths of two people in a blaze at Naaz Hotel in Ajmer, casualties in a fire at the operation theatre of Jaipur's SMS Hospital and an incident involving firecrackers in Kho Nagoriyan, Jaipur, in which six to seven people lost their lives. The commission directed the Jaipur municipal commissioner, district magistrate, divisional commissioner, police commissioner and chief fire officer to submit explanations within three days on the availability and location of fire hydrants, firefighting water points and hydraulic lifts and ladders capable of tackling fires in high-rise buildings. It also directed the authorities to take effective action regarding firecracker shops in congested markets and shift them to suitable locations away from densely populated areas to minimise the risk of casualties and property damage. The commission said that individual responsibility of officials would also be examined if a fire incident occurred due to inadequate resources or administrative negligence. The matter has been listed for further hearing on November 6, when the authorities have been asked to submit their compliance reports....