Indore, The Indore Municipal Corporation has uncovered serious irregularities in several hotels and commercial buildings during a comprehensive inspection drive focused on fire safety arrangements. Inspections conducted by the Corporation's team revealed that 157 buildings and hotels either lacked fire safety equipment or had systems that were non-functional or in a state of disrepair. Thirty-two buildings found to be in violation of regulations have been sealed.

The campaign was led by Additional Commissioners Prakhar Singh and Ashish Pathak, with the participation of Assistant Engineer Ankesh Birthare, Fire Officer Vinod Mishra, and other officials. The team inspected hotels and commercial buildings across various parts of the city to assess compliance with fire safety standards.

  Inspection of Fire Safety Systems  

During the inspections, the team examined essential safety equipment, including fire extinguishers, fire alarm systems, hydrant systems, sprinkler systems, emergency exit routes, and emergency lighting arrangements. Non-compliance with safety standards was observed at several locations; in some buildings, equipment was present but not operational.

Serious deficiencies in fire safety arrangements were identified in several buildings, including Hotel Shri Gurukripa and Hotel Vaishnav Palace (opposite Sarwate Bus Stand), Hotel The Meera and Hotel The Clean Indore (Rajiv Gandhi Square area), and Hotel Dilip and Hotel Vaishnav (Nasiya Road).

  Misuse of Basements Revealed  

The inspections also revealed that basements in some buildings were being used in violation of approved building plans and permissions. The Corporation has issued notices to the respective building owners and operators, granting them a three-day window to rectify the issues. They have been instructed to address all deficiencies and ensure that fire safety equipment is made fully functional within the stipulated timeframe.

  Survey of 467 Buildings; Notices Issued to 101  

According to the Municipal Corporation, a total of 467 buildings across various zones of the city have been surveyed so far. Among these, 305 buildings were found to have satisfactory fire safety equipment and systems, whereas serious deficiencies were detected in 157 buildings.

The Municipal Corporation has issued 101 notices so far to the owners and operators of such buildings. Officials stated that strict action will continue against buildings that lack fire safety systems or where safety equipment was found to be non-functional.

  Sealing of 32 Buildings  

The Municipal Corporation reported that 32 buildings were identified during the inspection where fire safety systems were completely absent or safety equipment had been defunct for a long time. In the interest of public safety, these buildings have been sealed with immediate effect.

Officials clarified that the inspection drive to ensure compliance with fire safety standards across the city will continue, and stern action will be taken against those who disregard the regulations.