On the night of Diwali, from the evening of October 20 to midnight on October 21, 2025, the Delhi Fire Services (DFS) handled 269 emergency calls across New Delhi, as reported by a senior DFS officer. The calls, largely related to minor fires caused by firecrackers and diyas, marked a significant increase from the previous year’s count of over 200. Despite the high volume, no major accidents, fatalities, or serious injuries were reported, showcasing the department’s effective response during one of India’s most fire-prone festivals. The absence of significant mishaps highlights the success of heightened vigilance and strategic planning in the capital.

The DFS was on high alert throughout the festival, with all fire stations and quick response teams deployed citywide to ensure rapid intervention. “We received 269 fire calls till midnight. Fortunately, no major incidents were reported,” the officer told PTI, noting that most incidents involved small-scale fires in residential areas that were swiftly contained. To prepare, the department had cancelled staff leaves and conducted thorough inspections of fire-fighting equipment and vehicles beforehand. This proactive approach, coupled with pre-festive safety drills, enabled DFS to manage the surge effectively, preventing escalations in densely populated neighborhoods where fire risks are amplified during Diwali celebrations.

Diwali, celebrated with diyas, fireworks, and communal gatherings, inherently carries fire hazards due to the widespread use of pyrotechnics. The 2025 call volume, up by over 60 from 2024, reflects heightened festive activity, despite campaigns promoting eco-friendly practices like green crackers. Historical trends show similar spikes, with DFS managing around 250 calls in 2023, also without major incidents. The department’s success this year stems from coordinated efforts with local authorities and public awareness initiatives encouraging safer firework use. These measures align with Delhi’s broader push to balance cultural traditions with safety and environmental concerns, particularly amid ongoing air quality challenges.

Also Read: India-Sri Lanka Ties in Focus as PM Modi Welcomes Harini Amarasuriya Ahead of NDTV World Summit

The incident-free Diwali night underscores the DFS’s robust emergency framework, offering a blueprint for other urban centers during high-risk festivals. As officials analyze response data to enhance future preparedness, the focus remains on sustaining public cooperation through regulated firework use and safety education. By containing all 269 incidents without loss of life or significant damage, DFS has ensured that Delhi’s 2025 Diwali celebrations remained a joyous occasion, reinforcing the city’s resilience in managing festive risks effectively.

Also Read: PM Modi Celebrates Diwali With Indian Navy Aboard INS Vikrant, Calls Visit Memorable