Every year, 14th April is observed as a “Fire Service Day” by the fire service organisations all over India. On this date in 1944, a large foreign ship at Mumbai port with million litres of lubricating oil, tons of bales of cotton along with highly inflammable materials caught fire unleashing a major tragedy.

As many as sixty-six brave fire fighters perished during the firefighting and rescue operations. To commemorate the martyrdom of the fire fighters, Fire Service organisations in the country observe this day as the “Fire Service Day” and pays tribute to the fire fighters who lost their lives in the line of duty. The week following the day (14th to 21st April) is observed as “Fire Safety Week”.