Hyderabad Authorities Launch Crackdown on Fire Safety Violators After Deadly Blaze
In a decisive move to enhance public safety, the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) sealed two commercial buildings in the city on Thursday for grave fire safety violations. This action marks the beginning of a rigorous crackdown on showrooms and commercial establishments that are flouting basic fire safety norms, coming in the wake of a deadly fire at a furniture showroom in Nampally that claimed five lives.
Neeru's Showroom in Jubilee Hills Found Operating Without Fire NOC
During inspections, grave lapses were discovered at Neeru's showroom located on Road No 36 in Jubilee Hills. HYDRAA officials took serious note of the unauthorized use of three cellars, four floors, and a rooftop shed, all of which were packed with garments. While sales activities were conducted on two floors, garment manufacturing and large-scale storage, resembling a warehouse, were found on the upper floors.
AV Ranganath, HYDRAA commissioner, stated, "We found that the showroom was operating without a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the fire department and lacked basic fire safety equipment, including adequate fire extinguishers." Alarmed by the excessive stocking of material and the complete absence of safety measures, he ordered the premises to be sealed immediately. The building was officially declared "fire-unsafe," with HYDRAA fencing erected around it and the power supply disconnected to prevent any further operations.
Officials from HYDRAA, the fire department, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), and the electricity department participated in this comprehensive inspection, highlighting the multi-agency effort to address safety concerns.
Standard Furniture Store Sealed on Nampally Station Road
In a separate action, a furniture showroom on Nampally Station Road, the same stretch where the fatal fire occurred, was also sealed. Commissioner Ranganath expressed concern, noting, "Despite the recent tragedy at Batcha Furniture Castle in the same area, shop owners continue to ignore basic safety norms. At Rahim Mannan Estates' Standard Furniture store, we found the six-storey building, including the cellar, heavily stocked with furniture on all floors."
The stock was stored in a manner that blocked stairway access, posing a severe risk during emergencies. The commissioner further highlighted the complete absence of a fire NOC and fire extinguishers across all six floors, underscoring the blatant disregard for safety protocols.
"Following the inspection, the building was sealed, power supply disconnected, and all commercial activity halted," he added, emphasizing the zero-tolerance approach towards such violations.
Citizens Urged to Report Fire Safety Violations
Appealing to citizens to assist in enforcement efforts, Commissioner Ranganath urged residents to report any fire safety violations they observe. Complaints regarding shops converted into warehouses, storage of inflammable material in cellars, or other hazardous practices can be reported to the HYDRAA control room at 9000113667 or 7207923085.
He also mentioned, "Citizens can also send complaints via WhatsApp along with photos and videos, clearly mentioning the location and details of the establishment, or raise concerns on X through the handle Commissioner_HYDRAA." This initiative aims to foster community participation in ensuring a safer urban environment, leveraging technology for efficient reporting and action.
The recent sealing operations serve as a stern warning to commercial establishments across Hyderabad, reinforcing the importance of adhering to fire safety regulations to prevent future tragedies and protect lives and property.
