Fire Officials Storm 70 Buildings After Fatal Blazes
Key lapses flagged include misuse of cellars for storage or housing watchmen, obstacles on staircases and ramps and excess stockpiling of goods or flammable objects among other things: Reports
HYDERABAD: In the wake of recent major fire mishaps in the city, the Telangana fire department has launched intensive inspections of establishments within the Outer Ring Road (ORR) limits on a war footing.
Since January 28, officials have checked 70 establishments, including hospitals, multiplexes, malls, mercantile outlets, assembly premises, and residential and commercial buildings. The drive, led by zonal and district fire officers, is aimed at identifying violations that pose imminent danger to life and property.
Key lapses flagged include misuse of cellars for storage or housing watchmen, obstacles on staircases and ramps and excess stockpiling of goods or flammable objects among other things.
Director general Vikram Singh instructed officials to take stringent action against managements found flouting fire safety norms. “We must ensure strict compliance with fire safety codes, proper functioning of extinguishers and sprinklers, and installation of all mandated systems,” he said in a press release.
The DG further appealed to owners, tenants, and employees to adhere to guidelines and cooperate with fire officials. “Lives are at stake. Safety cannot be compromised,” the statement from the Fire, Disaster Response, Emergency and Civil Defence Department emphasised.