BENGALURU: Though the Carlton Towers has undergone a complete makeover, after a major fire broke out in February 23, 2010 that killed nine people, only 14 of the 20 units of space are currently in use.
The seven-storied building on the Old Airport Road, which observed the seventh anniversary to mark the tragedy on Tuesday, currently has all the necessary fire safety requirements, but the scars of the horrific tragedy remain etched in the minds of the people. The owners, who restored the building at a cost of Rs 6 crore, are now in a fix due to poor response.
Every floor is currently well-equipped with advanced fire alarms, electrical ducts at each floor and there were at least four fire exits at each floor for safe evacuation. A skilled team of guards have also been deployed at the building. The seventh floor, where the fire initially broke out, looks brand new, but only three units are operational on this floor.
“Almost 95% of the work has already been completed in the building and only minor wiring work is pending. The building is well-maintained and ready for the occupants. We had got the clearances from department of fire and emergency services and the department of electrical inspectorate.
Yes, the occupancy is low but we are getting good number of queries from the prospective investors,” said a member of Carlton Tower Owner’s Association (CTOA).
On January 12 this year a 15-member team of fire and emergency officials, along with the chief fire officer, visited the building. A mock drill was conducted by the fire fighters to raise awareness among the occupants and CTOA members.
The seventh floor, where the fire initially broke out, now dons a new look and three units are already operational on this floor. The seven-storied building currently has 14 establishments.
“One has to move on in life. Initially, I was apprehensive, but when I visited the building, I was satisfied. It has all the necessary approvals by various governmental authorities and soon I will be renting out a space in the building,” said an owner.
