AI to boost security and fire safety, says Maharashtra Fire Services Director
PSP-ASIS Conclave in Mumbai explores AI applications in security, risk management and emergency response
MUMBAI 23 rd October 2026 ( TGN ): Artificial intelligence (AI) can make security surveillance more effective by enabling real-time monitoring, early detection of suspicious activity and faster emergency response, said Santosh Warick, Director of the Maharashtra Fire Services and Chief Fire Officer of the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC).
Speaking at the PSP-ASIS Conclave, organised by Pune Security Professionals (PSP) and the American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS) around the theme ‘AI in Security’, Warick highlighted the potential of AI in strengthening building security, fire prevention and emergency management.
“AI can be used to monitor crowds in factories, offices and malls, while also improving the management of security systems. It can help monitor fire safety installations in buildings and facilitate quicker responses during emergencies,” Warick said.
He explained that fire detection systems, alarms, hydrants and sprinkler systems equipped with sensors can generate alerts during emergencies, helping fire services respond more quickly. He also referred to amendments made to the Maharashtra Fire Prevention and Life Safety Measures Act in 2023, highlighting the importance of strengthening fire safety mechanisms in buildings.
The conclave, held at Hotel Iconica in Mumbai, brought together security professionals and industry representatives to discuss the growing role of AI in surveillance, risk management and organisational security.
Brigadier Preetpal Singh, National Head of Security, Bank of Baroda, highlighted the need for security professionals to understand both the opportunities and risks associated with AI.
With almost every aspect of modern life connected through the internet, AI has emerged as a powerful tool, but its misuse by threat actors presents new challenges, he said. Security professionals must understand the technology and explore how it can be deployed responsibly to strengthen the protection of organisations.
The discussions also highlighted the importance of adapting security practices to emerging technologies and evolving threats.
In his introductory remarks, Sunil Beedlam, co-founder of PSP, said the forum brings together professionals working in corporate, industrial and technology security, risk management and analysis. Its discussions cover geopolitical developments affecting security, challenges related to security personnel, access control systems and emergency preparedness.
He added that PSP plans to organise similar initiatives in Mumbai and other cities, besides recognising contributions to security and risk management through initiatives such as the Security Awards.
Kiran Hatyal, joint director of the Maharashtra Fire Services Directorate; Mangesh Kate, co-founder of PSP; Mahesh Gavhane, director of Security Shells Infotech; Rajiv Nair, managing director of Bion Analytics; Purvesh Gada of SymX, Samir Kumar Jha, Marsh Miranda, Pramod Bhilare and Rakesh Kherwa from the ASIS Mumbai chapter team and part of the organising committee along with PSP, and other senior security professionals attended the event.
Nilesh Gadekar, VP Protective Security, HSBC Bank India and Santosh Bhalke, Asst. Security Manager, Hotel Grand Hyatt, Mumbai were felicitated for their contributions to the security services sector. Mrinalini Chaturvedi compered the programme, while Mangesh Kate proposed the vote of thanks.
