In a decisive move to enforce public safety, the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has launched a major crackdown on commercial establishments flouting fire safety regulations. The action, which led to the immediate sealing of four restaurants, comes in the wake of stern criticism from the High Court regarding lax enforcement.
High Court Pressure Spurs Action
The drive was initiated by the Dharampeth zone of the NMC in collaboration with the Fire Department. On Friday, officials targeted multiple high-profile eateries that had repeatedly ignored notices to comply with the law. The operation was supervised by Dharampeth zone's assistant commissioner Rajkumar Meshram.
Popular Rooftop Restaurant Among Those Sealed
The crackdown focused on the Ved Solitaire building, where three restaurants on different floors were shut down. These included the Cyclone Restaurant on the 15th floor, PSS (The Spirited Spot) on the 17th floor, and the popular Rasta Rooftop on the 18th floor.
Officials found that all three establishments had failed to install mandatory heat and smoke detection systems. A critical violation was the use of excessive LPG cylinders beyond permitted limits. During the raid, eight LPG cylinders were seized. Notices had been previously served to operators Asif Qureshi, Ashok Uke, and Rahul Chetani, but no corrective action was taken.
Open Kitchen Sealed for Zero Safety Measures
In a separate but simultaneous action, the team sealed the Bakasur Restaurant on WHC Road in Kachipura. The inspection revealed that its open kitchen had absolutely no fire safety arrangements in place. The kitchen was immediately sealed, and operator Bharat Dubey was directed to implement all required safety measures before seeking reopening.
An official pointed out a significant discrepancy: while the Ved Solitaire building has all necessary approvals for commercial use, the restaurants operating within it completely neglected the mandatory fire safety provisions. These provisions are not optional but a legal requirement under the Maharashtra Fire Prevention & Life Safety Measures Act, 2006.
Panic Among Violators, Strict Reopening Rules
The sweeping action has sent shockwaves through the city's hospitality sector, particularly among restaurateurs known for hosting late-night parties and serving liquor in violation of norms. The NMC issued a clear directive, stating that "Operators must obtain clearance from the fire department before reopening." This means the sealed establishments cannot resume business until they fully comply with all fire safety standards and receive official approval.
This enforcement drive underscores a renewed commitment by Nagpur's civic authorities to prioritize citizen safety over commercial interests, especially in high-rise buildings where fire hazards can lead to catastrophic outcomes.
