Fire safety crackdown: 14 establishments sealed in 48 hours

Indore: District administration and Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC) launched a crackdown on commercial properties violating fire safety norms in Indore. Several establishments were sealed on Saturday for failing to protect public health and safety against potential fire hazards. The action followed a strict ultimatum issued by the authorities.A joint operation led by Juni Indore SDM Ghanshyam Dhangar targeted buildings with incomplete or non-existent fire safety systems. Officials sealed JMC Hotel in Samrat Ashok Nagar along with various shops, showrooms, a gym and a library.The action was taken after expiration of a final warning period given to building owners to install functional fire safety equipment.Earlier, a city-wide survey was conducted in high-footfall areas. It had highlighted significant safety gaps. A total of 432 buildings were surveyed across all zones. Of them, 133 buildings were found with no fire safety systems at all. Also, in 282 buildings with equipment, 50 systems were found to be non-functional. Several buildings were also flagged for failing to use basements for their sanctioned parking purposes.Till now, 101 notices have been served to owners of non-compliant buildings. The crackdown has already resulted in sealing of 14 buildings in last 48 hours.Collector Shivam Verma said the safety of citizens was paramount, especially during the high-risk summer months. IMC has appealed to all building owners to ensure their fire suppression systems are operational and to conduct regular drills to ensure a swift response during emergencies.