Fire dept, LDA check 29 buildings in city

Lucknow: In the wake of the recent fatal hotel fire in Delhi, authorities in Lucknow launched a joint fire safety audit targeting high-occupancy buildings, including hotels, restaurants, malls, apartments and clubs, to plug gaps and strengthen emergency preparedness.

Fire department had been conducting the inspection over the past two days, but the LDA joined the drive on Saturday. A simultaneous special audit of 29 establishments — including hotels, public clubs, malls and apartment complexes — was carried out with fire personnel focusing on the availability and functionality of extinguishers, hydrants, sprinklers, smoke detectors and access routes for fire tenders, while, the LDA has sought approved building plans and fire clearances from managers of these establishments, which will be cross-verified with on-ground findings.

As part of the exercise, around 502 staff members and occupants were trained in fire safety, including the use of extinguishers, evacuation protocols and handling electrical and kitchen fire risks.

LDA vice-Chairman Prathamesh Kumar said, “This is a preventive and corrective exercise aimed at ensuring that all high-footfall buildings strictly adhere to fire safety norms. Any lapse compromising public safety will be dealt with firmly.”

LDA also engaged with Resident Welfare Associations to address fire safety concerns in residential complexes. Additional Secretary, LDA, CP Tripathi said they would work closely with RWAs and commercial establishments to strengthen safety measures throughout the city.