Citywide fire safety drive leads to 5 closures, 24 notices

The Delhi Government has launched a citywide fire safety inspection drive across restaurants, hotels and clubs, ordering the closure of five establishments for serious violations and issuing notices to 24 others. The inspections, carried out by the Delhi Fire Service (DFS), have so far covered 74 premises across the capital.

Officials said 45 establishments were found compliant with fire safety norms, while the rest failed to meet mandatory standards related to firefighting equipment, emergency exits and building bylaws. Home Minister Ashish Sood said the drive was aimed at preventing tragedies during a period of high public footfall.

“The safety of Delhiites is paramount. No negligence in compliance with fire safety norms will be tolerated,” Sood said, stressing that enforcement would remain strict during the festive season.

Officials said five premises were ordered to shut down due to “serious and potentially dangerous” violations.

Twenty-four others were served notices and directed to rectify deficiencies within prescribed timelines. Sood said the inspections were initiated keeping in mind the surge in crowds at eateries, pubs and hotels during year-end celebrations.

He also referred to a recent fatal fire incident at a nightclub in Goa, saying it underlined the need for strict vigilance. “Such incidents remind us that complacency can cost lives. Our action is preventive, not punitive. The objective is to ensure that people can celebrate safely,” the Home Minister said.

DFS officials involved in the drive said inspections were being carried out without prior notice to ensure accurate assessment of preparedness.

“We are checking whether emergency exits are accessible, whether staff are trained to respond during a fire, and whether equipment is functional,” a senior DFS officer said.

According to officials, common violations found during inspections include blocked exits, non-functional extinguishers, expired fire safety certificates and unauthorised alterations to building layouts. In several cases, establishments were found operating beyond approved capacity, increasing risk during emergencies.

The Home Minister appealed to owners and operators of commercial establishments to take responsibility for safety. He urged them to conduct regular internal checks, ensure staff training in emergency response, and strictly follow statutory fire safety requirements.

“Fire safety is not just about permissions and certificates. It is about preparedness and accountability every day,” Sood said.