The AAP Government has ordered an inspection of all restro-bars and eateries in South Delhi’s posh Hauz Khas market following reports that just five out of the 52 food joints in the area have fire clearance.
According to a senior official, with over 50 restro-bars being operational in tightly-packed alleys, the area is vulnerable to any untoward incident. Many food joints and restaurants are located in the same building with narrow entry and exit points which may prove to be hindrance during any immediate evacuation.
The official said the Home Minister Satyendar Jain has ordered a joint inspection by officials of fire department, Delhi Pollution Control Committee and South civic body. “The inspection team will identify the fire safety measures and loopholes in the entities,” the official said.
He said the purpose behind the joint-inspection is to ensure that all the entities operate as per laid-down norms.
“All agencies concerned will examine all restro-bars and eateries together and will submit a combined report to the department suggesting on entry and exist besides fire safety measures,” he added.
Pointing out that some of the restaurants don’t even have emergency exits, the official said that illegal constructions and encroachments in the already narrow lanes of the market - which is frequented by thousands of people every day - make it difficult for fire tenders to enter in case of an emergency.
“Government doesn’t want to compromise with the safety of people coming and working at these entities. In the past, Government was getting several complaints about owners that lack fire safety measures,” he added.