92 City Hospitals Under Fire for Fire Safety Violations A fire incident at the paediatric department of Daga Hospital in Nagpur has reignited concerns about the poor state of fire safety compliance across the city’s healthcare facilities. The incident has exposed systemic failures in adhering to fire safety norms, prompting authorities to take action against 92 hospitals that have violated regulations under the National Building Code 2016 and the Maharashtra Fire Prevention and Life Safety Measures Act 2006 (amended in 2023). According to data from the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC), 370 hospitals in the city have obtained temporary no-objection certificates (NOCs) for fire safety, but only 164 have secured permanent occupancy certificates after completing required safety measures. Another 76 hospital buildings are still under construction, while several operational facilities continue to function with incomplete compliance. The NMC claims that fire safety arrangements have been fully implemented in 240 buildings, but the data highlights the significant risk to patients and staff. Notices have been issued to 92 hospitals, demanding immediate action to address pending fire safety measures. Of these, 60 buildings have been classified as dangerous and ordered to be vacated. The fire department has also initiated proceedings to disconnect electricity and water supply to 30 buildings for ongoing non-compliance. In six severe cases, police assistance has been sought to evacuate and seal premises, while one building has already been sealed. Under existing laws, hospitals are required to complete fire safety installations within 120 days. Authorities have the power to declare buildings unsafe, cut off utilities, forcibly evacuate occupants, and seal structures if violations persist.#nagpur_municipal_corporation #nmc #daga_hospital #national_building_code_2016
