Lucknow Fire Department Exposes Widespread Safety Violations After Hotel Blaze
In a startling revelation following a massive fire at an under-construction hotel in Gomtinagar, the Lucknow fire department has disclosed that nearly 90 hotels across the city are operating without the mandatory fire safety no-objection certificate (NOC). This critical lapse in compliance has raised alarm bells about public safety, prompting immediate enforcement action.
Enforcement Crackdown Commences Monday
Fire department officials confirmed that compliance checks are scheduled to begin from Monday, marking the start of a rigorous enforcement drive. Notices have already been served to hotels found violating fire safety norms, directing them to immediately adhere to prescribed standards and obtain the necessary NOC from the fire department.
Chief Fire Officer Ankush Mittal stated that several hotels have approached the department requesting additional time to meet required norms. "They cite the need for long-term corrective measures, including structural changes, installation of fire detection and suppression systems, and evacuation infrastructure," Mittal explained. He noted that some hotels have already taken corrective steps and upgraded their fire safety equipment following the notices.
No Leniency for Persistent Violators
However, officials made it clear that leniency will not be extended indefinitely. The fire department will begin physical inspections from Monday to verify whether hotels have complied with the issued notices. "If deficiencies persist or establishments fail to show tangible progress, we will formally write to the district administration recommending strict action," CFO Mittal emphasized.
The disclosure follows the Gomtinagar incident, where a fire in the basement of a 16-storey under-construction hotel triggered panic and a prolonged rescue operation. Fire officials described the incident as a wake-up call, prompting a renewed audit of fire safety compliance across commercial hospitality establishments.
Serious Public Safety Concerns
Officials stressed that operating hotels without a fire safety NOC is a clear violation of norms and poses significant risks to guests and staff. The department reiterated that fire safety compliance is non-negotiable, warning that hotels failing to meet standards could face:
- Sealing of premises
- Substantial fines
- Complete closure through administrative action
The fire department has urged hotel owners to treat the issue with utmost urgency and ensure full compliance to avoid stringent punitive measures in the coming days. This enforcement drive underscores the critical importance of fire safety protocols in preventing tragedies and safeguarding public welfare in urban hospitality sectors.
