The Delhi Fire Service (DFS) has rejected the fire safety certificate renewal applications of Thyagraj Stadium and the Central Secretariat metro station for failing to meet norms. The department also rejected the applications of some government schools and commercial buildings citing similar shortcomings.

According to official documents, the DFS said the smoke management system in the basement of Thyagraj Stadium was found non-functional while the fire extinguishers were found “expired, un-refilled and non-functional”.

The DFS also flagged that exit signage were found removed at some places while first aid hose reel was non-functional.

“... Application of renewal of fire safety certificate is rejected. The occupancy of the building in the absence of requisite fire protection system/fire safety certificate shall be at the risk and responsibility of the management,” the DFS said in a communication to the Public Works Department, which manages the stadium. While rejecting the Central Secretariat metro station’s application, the department said the “smoke curtain provided for compartmentation between line-2 and line-6 was found non-functional”.

Reacting to the development, Anuj Dayal, principal executive director, Delhi metro corporate communications, told PTI, “The process of getting such certifications is a continuous exercise and we are always in touch with the authorities concerned.

 “Regarding Central Secretariat, the fire curtain issue has already been resolved and other issues are also being resolved on priority.”

The DFS has also refused to renew the fire safety certificate of the World Trade Centre building on the Barakhamba Road, saying the lift signage were found removed and there was no alternative exit for personnel working on the first floor.

It also noted that the corridor on the third floor of the building was found “encroached” and unavailable for evacuation.