The Ranchi Municipal Corporation (RMC) has warned of sealing coaching centres operating in violation of building regulations and student safety norms, including those lacking approved building plans, adequate parking, emergency exits and mandatory fire safety clearances.
The warning was issued at a meeting chaired by the municipal commissioner with coaching institute operators on Wednesday. The operators presented their explanations in response to notices previously issued by the civic body.
During the meeting, the corporation found that most coaching centres were operating in buildings without approved building plans or adequate parking facilities. Shortcomings were also identified in emergency evacuation arrangements and the availability of mandatory fire No Objection Certificates (NOCs), raising concerns over student safety.
In some cases, operators produced building plans, but scrutiny revealed that the buildings had been approved for residential use even though they were being used for commercial activities such as coaching centres. The corporation said such use of buildings in violation of their sanctioned purpose amounted to non-compliance with applicable regulations.
The municipal commissioner made it clear that student safety was the corporation's top priority and that institutions flouting mandatory provisions would face sealing action in accordance with the rules. No coaching centre would be permitted to compromise student safety by ignoring building regulations, parking requirements or fire safety norms.
Several operators sought additional time to shift their institutes to alternative premises. The municipal commissioner told them that any request for an extension must be submitted through a formal application accompanied by a notarised affidavit. Such applications would be considered in accordance with the applicable rules.
The civic body also clarified that verbal requests for additional time would not be entertained and would not provide any exemption from enforcement action.
The corporation has urged all coaching centre operators to ensure compliance with approved building use, parking arrangements, emergency evacuation provisions and fire safety requirements. It said enforcement measures would continue in the interest of students and the general public.