A recent analysis by the Delhi Fire Department has revealed a startling and dangerous trend: the vast majority of serious fire incidents in the national capital are occurring in buildings that lack a valid Fire No-Objection Certificate (NOC). The data for the financial year 2024-25 paints a grim picture of widespread non-compliance with basic fire safety norms, putting countless lives and properties at risk.
Residential Properties Top the List of Fire Hazards
The statistics are alarming. Out of a total of 7,312 fire incidents reported from buildings operating without a valid fire NOC, a staggering 5,506 occurred in residential properties. Even more concerning is that out of these thousands of residential fires, only 12 buildings had a valid NOC, meaning 5,494 homes were operating without this crucial safety clearance.
A senior fire official explained the common culprits behind these residential tragedies. "The surge in home fires is primarily due to overloaded electrical systems, negligence in turning off gas cylinders, and the use of substandard wiring," he stated. The official further highlighted that homes are often filled with combustible materials like sofas, curtains, and furniture, which allow a small spark to escalate into a major blaze with terrifying speed.
Commercial and Industrial Establishments Also at High Risk
The vulnerability extends far beyond homes. Mercantile properties, including shops, warehouses, and showrooms, were the second-most affected category, accounting for 693 fire incidents. Of these, 691 properties did not possess a fire NOC. "In commercial settings, electrical faults like sparks from loose connections, combined with general negligence, are the primary triggers," the official noted.
The data shows a similar pattern of non-compliance across other sectors:
- Industrial establishments recorded 450 fires, with 446 in properties lacking an NOC.
- Business offices saw 301 incidents, 299 without the certificate.
- Storage godowns reported 200 fires, 199 without an NOC.
- Assembly places like restaurants, hotels, and banquet halls had 121 incidents, 105 in non-compliant buildings.
The official warned that the risk is compounded by the presence of flammable materials. "A fire can erupt during any routine process. Even a careless act like discarding a cigarette bidi can ignite a disaster," he emphasized.
The Critical Gap Between Certification and Compliance
The problem is not limited to buildings that never sought certification. The analysis includes establishments that obtained an NOC initially but failed to renew it, as well as those that may fall outside strict guidelines. This points to a systemic issue of oversight and maintenance.
Deputy Chief Fire Officer A K Malik detailed the rigorous inspection process before granting a certificate. "Our teams conduct thorough checks based on prescribed guidelines. We verify the installation and functionality of fire safety equipment, ensure entry and exit points are clear, assess emergency preparedness, and confirm overall compliance to safeguard occupants," he said.
However, former fire department director Atul Garg pointed out a dangerous loophole. He revealed that some establishments obtain a fire NOC merely as a formality to secure operational licenses, but subsequently neglect all safety measures. "Many owners view the proper upkeep of systems like alarms, extinguishers, and sprinklers as an expensive burden, leading to serious lapses. This irresponsible practice drastically increases the risk to life and property," Garg stated.
He issued a crucial reminder to all building owners and residents: "Simply obtaining an NOC is not a one-time solution. Regular maintenance and strict, ongoing adherence to fire safety norms are absolutely essential to prevent catastrophic disasters." The Delhi fire data serves as a stark wake-up call for urgent action on fire safety compliance across all sectors.
