Over 200 high rise buildings in Ggn do not have fire safety NOCs

Gurugram: Fear to the safety of citizens was again raised after a massive fire mishap fire was reported from a Gurugram mall on Sunday afternoon. Even though there were no casualties, the incident once again exposed the shortcomings in the standard operating procedures. It seems the city is yet to learn lesson from the deadly inferno that was reported from Kamala Mills in Mumbai and Bawana factory in Delhi.

According to official data, over 200 high-rises which are buildings at a height of 15 metres do not have NOCs from fire safety officials. It is estimated that a population of around 7,000 people live in these buildings.

Most of the builders have to renew the fire safety licence after every one year. The fire department officials mention that most of them have not renewed their licence for more than two years. The fire department officials have also cited that most of the high rises do not possess adequate devices in order to deal with a major fire which further may jeopardise the lives of the citizens.

Even as large number of notices and strict action has been taken against the high rises in the past, the officials cited of the careless approach adopted by the builders in terms of fire safety. "As per law, major establishments in the city have to renew their licences after every year. However, many establishments in the city do not renew their licences and continue to play with the lives of the people in the city. While the fire department is expected to take action, even the residents must put pressure on these establishments," said a senior official from the fire department.

Lack of proper infrastructure in the city also can prove to be major challenge in dealing with massive fire tragedy. While the hydraulic machine possessed by the fire safety officials can be raised up to the level of 40 metres, most of the high rises extend to the height of 50 metres.

Recently, the Haryana government made an announcement that a budget of Rs 50 crore will be allocated in revamping the fire department. It is expected that hydraulic platform of 100 metres, 70 metres and 32 metres along with high crane vehicles will be purchased. However, no deadline has been given as when these devices will be procured.