Bengaluru Fire Rekindles, Exposing Widespread Lack of Safety Certificates
In a concerning development in Bengaluru, a day after a fire hazard at a multi-storey building in Kumbarpet, Chickpet, embers flared up once again on Thursday morning. This resurgence occurred following the collapse of an internal wall, necessitating the urgent deployment of two 16,000-litre water tankers to control the situation.
Alarming Statistics on Fire Safety Compliance
A senior officer from the fire and emergency services department revealed a startling fact: nearly 99% of buildings in areas such as Avenue Road, Kumbarpet, Chickpet, and adjoining localities do not possess a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the department. This certificate is crucial for ensuring fire safety standards are met.
The officer explained, "The government recently mandated NOC only for high-rise buildings above 21 metres, altering the previous norm of 15 metres. However, hundreds of buildings above 15 metres still pose significant risks in the vicinity. All these buildings should be made mandatory for NOC to enhance safety."
Operational Challenges and Political Interference
Firefighters face immense difficulties when responding to emergencies in these areas. The officer added, "We never fear fighting fire; that is our duty and we are trained for it. But calls from these areas cause panic due to narrow lanes where fire tenders cannot maneuver, illegally constructed floors, sub-standard electrical materials in commercial buildings, illegal godowns in basements, and iron grills on windows along narrow staircases that block access."
Another officer highlighted enforcement challenges, lamenting, "When we urge building owners to comply, they often approach political leaders or ministers, who then direct us not to disturb them. This is how the system works, undermining safety efforts."
Injuries and Medical Response
During the firefighting operation, two personnel sustained minor burn injuries to their hands. They were promptly shifted to Victoria Hospital for treatment. Dr. Yogishwarappa CN, professor and head of the department of plastic surgery and burns at the hospital, stated, "We treated them on an OPD basis with minor dressing and tablets. They were advised to rest until they feel well enough to resume work."
Trade Norms and Regulatory Gaps
Former Chickpet corporator AL Shivakumar pointed out that trade norms are also being flouted in the area. He said, "The exemption from NOC is largely for MSMEs in industrial areas, but all these pete areas are not industrial zones. While exemptions are given for activities like cloth manufacturing, here it is purely trade with piled-up stocks. Everyone must have a trade licence. If they have a GST number, they must also possess a trade licence to ensure compliance."
This incident underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement of fire safety regulations and building codes in Bengaluru's densely populated commercial areas to prevent future tragedies.
