Dehradun: Following the tragic fire incidents in Delhi and Gujarat, the Uttarakhand Fire Department conducted a comprehensive inspection of shopping complexes, hospitals, and schools across the state. The findings were alarming: numerous institutions lack the necessary Fire No Objection Certificate (NOC) and proper fire safety equipment. In some cases, equipment exists but is non-functional.
166 Hospitals Lack Fire NOC: The fire department focused its inspections on institutions with covered areas of 500 square feet and heights exceeding 12 meters. A staggering 166 hospitals, 94 schools, and 292 shopping complexes were found to be without fire safety measures. Notices have been issued, urging these institutions to install equipment promptly. In contrast, 189 hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics have obtained the required NOC.
NOCs Issued to 557 Schools: While 557 schools and 292 shopping complexes have received NOCs, a concerning number of hospitals have failed to renew their certifications for years. These hospitals are now facing notices and potential consequences for non-compliance.
Fire Safety Systems Mandatory in Hospitals: Hospitals are required to have robust fire prevention equipment. While larger hospitals (over 500 square meters) must obtain NOCs from the fire department, smaller ones receive certificates from development authorities. However, all hospitals fall under the purview of the fire service department’s oversight.
Doon Hospital’s OPD and Emergency Lack Fire NOC: Even Doon Hospital’s OPD and emergency departments lack the required fire NOC. Hospital officials state that these sections were government-built and did not initially have NOCs. However, fire equipment has been installed, and staff are undergoing fire safety training.
This situation underscores the critical need for stricter enforcement of fire safety regulations to protect lives and property across Uttarakhand.
