114 buildings in Mumbai flouting fire norms, finds survey

The drive was taken up in the wake of a fire at a high-rise in Kandivli last month. A firefighting system ensured the blaze didn’t spread or lead to any casualties, said officials

Of the 193 buildings surveyed as part of the fire department’s 10-day inspection drive, 114 were found to be flouting safety norms. The fire brigade has sent notices to these 114 societies asking them to comply with the norms within 60 days.

The drive was taken up in the wake of a fire at a high-rise in Kandivli last month. A firefighting system ensured the blaze didn’t spread or lead to any casualties, said officials.

The drive was carried out between September 23 and October 4 by 65 fire officers from the inspection cell of the department. The 114 buildings did not maintain a sprinkler system, fire pumps or riser.

The fire officials inspected 86 high-rise residential buildings, 11 high-rise commercial buildings, 93 low-rise residential buildings, one mall and two other such structures. Fire alarm system, automatic detection system & main control panel too were reported to be in non-working condition in these buildings. The staircase and common passages which need to be kept free of encroachment were found obstructed.

The authorities have directed inspecting officers to disconnect the electricity and water supply, if they don’t take the necessary measures within the stipulated period.

PS Rahangdale, chief fire officer, said, “The drive was carried out as per the directives of the civic chief. We want citizens to take the recommendations of the fire department seriously.”