Nine Delhi eateries found to be violating fire safety norms

New Delhi: In the wake of the deadly fire in Mumbai's Kamala Mills area, the Delhi Fire Services (DFS) here conducted inspection in several restaurants, especially the crowded ones, to check whether or not they were violating fire safety norms.

DFS chief fire officer Atul Garg told Millennium Post that nine restaurants were found to be in violation and were sent notices regarding their negligence.

When asked about the culprits, Garg said that some of the restaurants included Chew, Nehle Pe Dehla, Excuse Me Boss, Kill the Bill, Ardour, My Bar Headquarters, Play Boy, Do Not Disturb – all of which are in Connaught Place.

Another restaurant situated in Aurobindo Marg has been sent a notice. "There were several reasons behind sending notices, like some of them had fewer escape routes," said Garg.

Meanwhile, for the New Year, DFS have made appropriate security arrangements for the safety of revellers, including deployment of fire tenders at strategic locations. DFS officials said that any person going to pubs or clubs on New Year's Even should be aware of escape routes, which will be vital if case of a fire.

"Before entering a pub, a person should – for their own safety – ask the owner whether they have NOC (no objection certificate). If not, they should tell them to get it," said a DFS official.

Not only DFS, but Delhi Police too conducted a safety audit of restaurants and other eateries in south Delhi recently and held a meeting with their owners, informing them about safety and security measures.

"When we found any negligence from their side, we told them to take care of the issues; like if there are any dark spots near their restaurants, they should ensure proper lighting and installation of CCTV," said a senior police official.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (South) Romil Baaniya, who was present during the meeting, told these establishment to keep a close watch on troublemakers and helping police maintain public safety during the New Year celebrations.

"We told them to take adequate fire precautions as well," said the DCP.