A fire incident in the paediatric department of Daga Hospital on Wednesday has once again highlighted the precarious state of fire safety preparedness in Nagpur's hospitals, raising serious concerns about how several healthcare facilities continue to operate despite glaring violations.
Fire Safety Violations Across Nagpur Hospitals
Data from the Nagpur Municipal Corporation's fire department reveals that 92 hospitals across the city are currently facing action for failing to comply with mandatory fire safety norms under the National Building Code 2016 and the Maharashtra Fire Prevention and Life Safety Measures Act, 2006 (amended in 2023).
According to official figures, 370 hospitals in the city obtained temporary no-objection certificates (NOCs), but only 164 have secured permanent occupancy certificates after completing prescribed fire safety measures. Another 76 hospital buildings remain under construction, while several operational facilities are still functioning with incomplete compliance, the data revealed.
Extent of Non-Compliance
The NMC claims that full fire safety arrangements have been ensured in 240 buildings so far. However, the numbers also reveal the alarming extent of risk looming over patients and medical staff. Notices have been issued to 92 hospitals directing them to immediately implement pending fire safety measures. Of these, 60 buildings have been declared dangerous and asked to be vacated.
The fire department has also initiated proceedings to disconnect electricity and water supply to 30 buildings for continued non-compliance. In six highly dangerous cases, police assistance has been sought to evacuate and seal the premises, while one building has already been sealed.
Legal Provisions and Enforcement
Under existing provisions, hospitals are required to complete fire safety installations within 120 days. The law empowers authorities to declare buildings dangerous, disconnect utilities, forcibly evacuate occupants, and seal structures if violations persist.
Even as teams from 12 fire stations continue inspections across the city, the Daga Hospital incident has intensified fears that hospitals meant to save lives could themselves become death traps if enforcement remains slow and violations continue unchecked.
