The Noida Fire Department has given the green light to just 35 hotels, pubs, clubs, community halls, and banquet venues to host celebrations on New Year's Eve this year. Officials have made it clear that any party organized without a valid, event-specific fire No Objection Certificate (NOC) will face immediate shutdown, and legal action will be taken against the organizers.
Stringent Inspections Lead to Selective Approvals
Chief Fire Officer Pradeep Chaubey revealed that while over 50 applications were received, only 35 venues were deemed fit after rigorous on-ground inspections. "We were very stringent with issuing NOCs," Chaubey stated. "NOCs were only given after proper inspections to see if they were absolutely equipped to handle fire hazards." The inspections were comprehensive, focusing on several critical safety parameters.
The fire safety teams meticulously checked:
- The availability and working condition of fire-fighting equipment.
- Clear and accessible emergency exits.
- Electrical wiring systems and load capacity to prevent short circuits.
- Safety protocols in kitchen areas.
- Strict compliance with occupancy norms to avoid overcrowding.
Additionally, officials reviewed temporary installations like decorative lighting, sound systems, and stage setups to ensure they met all safety standards.
Goa Tragedy Prompts Nationwide Safety Review
This renewed and strict focus on fire safety comes in the wake of the deadly hotel blaze in Goa earlier this month, which claimed more than 20 lives. The tragedy prompted administrations across India, including Noida, to urgently reassess preparedness at crowded venues.
Acting swiftly, joint inspection teams from the fire department, excise department, and electrical safety wing conducted surprise checks on December 8 and 9, just a day after the Goa incident. These teams visited more than 30 pubs and nightclubs across the district, examining bar licences, existing fire safety certificates, kitchen layouts, and all critical safety infrastructure.
Separate NOC Mandatory for Special Events
A key point emphasized by the authorities is that even venues with permanent fire clearances must obtain a separate, event-specific NOC for special occasions like New Year's Eve. This rule ensures that the unique risks associated with large, one-time events—such as temporary decorations, higher guest counts, and special performances—are properly evaluated and mitigated.
In a related development, the excise department has issued 115 occasional bar licences to various establishments for serving liquor on December 31. However, possessing a bar licence does not substitute for the mandatory fire NOC, and venues must comply with both sets of regulations to operate legally.
The clear message from Noida authorities is that public safety is non-negotiable. With strict enforcement in place, revellers are advised to choose only those venues that have secured the necessary permissions, ensuring a safe and happy start to the new year.
