Prepare fire safety report on bars, restaurants: Borkar

Nagpur: Ruling party leader Narendra Borkar directed the NMC's fire dept to obtain a detailed report from the state excise dept on fire safety systems in marriage halls, restaurants and bars operating in buildings taller than 15 metres. He set a 15-day deadline for submission of the report.The directive was issued during a meeting of the civic body's special committee on fire and electricity on Thursday. The meeting, chaired by fire committee chairperson Rupali Thakur, reviewed preparedness of fire safety systems in crowded establishments ahead of the summer season.Officials discussed the mandatory requirement of obtaining a fire department no-objection certificate (NOC) for establishments such as hospitals, schools, coaching classes, wedding halls, restaurants and bars. Town planning officials clarified that buildings below 15 metres do not require a fire NOC. Borkar instructed that no notices be issued to such structures but stressed strict verification for high-rise buildings to ensure compliance with fire safety norms.He directed the fire dept to write to licensing authorities, including the excise dept, seeking details of fire safety compliance in operational bars and restaurants. In cases where establishments lack adequate systems, authorities were asked to initiate action for licence cancellation. Borkar cautioned officials against issuing notices without proper inspection. He said complaints must be verified on the ground before any action is taken.Highlighting risks in densely occupied premises, Thakur reiterated that fire safety systems and NOCs are mandatory for all such establishments and called for fresh inspections. Deputy chairperson Lakhan Yerwar emphasised the need for a comprehensive policy involving fire, town planning and health departments to strengthen safety mechanisms.Chief fire officer Tushar Barahate said the dept is fully equipped to handle emergencies, while officials urged vigilance as fire incidents typically rise during peak summer.