Chandigarh: Haryana Government has ordered immediate fire safety audits of nightclubs, bars, pubs and other entertainment venues with dance floors across the state, following concerns over fire safety lapses in such establishments. The directions have been issued by Financial Commissioner, Revenue and Disaster Management, Dr. Sumita Misra, with the objective of preventing any fire-related mishaps and ensuring public safety.
Taking note of the lessons emerging from the Goa incident, Dr. Misra stressed the need for heightened vigilance and strict enforcement of safety regulations in Haryana. All Deputy Commissioners have been directed to immediately undertake comprehensive fire safety audits of nightclubs, bars, pubs and similar establishments that host large public gatherings. The audits are to be carried out strictly in accordance with the provisions of the National Building Code, 2016 and the Haryana Fire and Emergency Services Act, 2022. Officials have been given a seven-day deadline to complete the audits and submit their reports.
The inspections will focus on verifying the availability and proper functioning of emergency exit doors, adequacy of fire-fighting arrangements, validity of licenses and permissions, and overall adherence to prescribed fire and life safety norms. Dr. Misra has made it clear that any violations or deficiencies found during these audits must be addressed without delay and will invite strict action as per law.
Deputy Commissioners have been instructed to submit detailed reports of the audits, along with information on action taken or proposed to be taken, within seven days. The exercise, according to the Financial Commissioner, is aimed at strengthening the state’s fire safety preparedness and ensuring that public places in Haryana do not become vulnerable to avoidable and tragic incidents.
