Disaster management

Periodic checks, audits to render high-rises in Bangalore fire-proof

Srikanth Hunasavadi / DNA

Bangalore: The state government has decided to bring in sweeping changes in the fire safety rules to prevent tragedies like the one that occurred at Carlton Towers on Airport Road three months ago. All high-rise buildings will be subject to inspections periodically, and their compliance with fire safety norms will be audited. Penal action will be taken against those found violating the rules.

The Karnataka Municipality Act will be amended. “We are preparing a draft bill on fire safety auditing in the high-rise buildings, which will be introduced in the coming legislative session,” home minister VS Acharya said, adding, “We have learnt lessons from Carlton Towers and other recent incidents. At present, once buildings get the occupancy certificate, there are no further checks. The new rules will make it mandatory for fire department officials to re-audit fire safety measures. There will be provisions for periodic and also surprise visits. Special officers will be appointed for this.”

Fire fighting capabilities too would be augmented. “This year, we are planning to set up 25 more fire stations across the state; 31 new modern fire fighting vehicles will be purchased. We will add manpower. We plan to purchase sky lifts and other equipment,” the home minister said.

Children too will not find themselves out of the ambit of the state’s fire fighting mechanism. DGP fire and emergency services, Jija Madhavan Harisingh said, “Last year, the Supreme Court directed that measures for fire safety be strictly enforced in all schools. Hence we are trying to create awareness among the children too.”