After Lucknow fire, Chhattisgarh orders audit of coaching centres, high-rises

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has ordered a statewide special safety audit of high-rise residential buildings, coaching institutes, hotels, malls and other commercial establishments following recent fire incidents in different parts of the country.

The move came amid growing concerns over compliance with fire safety and building regulations in public-use structures. The Chief Minister said ensuring the safety of citizens, students and visitors remained the government's top priority and directed authorities to strictly enforce all prescribed safety norms.

Warning against negligence, Sai said institutions and establishments found violating safety regulations would face strict action under the law.

Following the Chief Minister's directive, Chief Secretary Vikas Sheel has instructed Divisional Commissioners, District Collectors, Municipal Commissioners, Chief Municipal Officers, fire department officials and other concerned authorities to begin a special inspection campaign across the state.

As part of the audit, officials will inspect high-rise residential complexes, coaching centres, tuition facilities, hotels, lodges, malls, commercial complexes and other buildings accessed by the public. The inspection will assess the availability and functioning of firefighting equipment, validity of Fire NOCs, emergency exits, structural safety, electrical systems, CCTV facilities, first-aid arrangements, drinking water and sanitation facilities.

Authorities will also examine whether buildings are operating within their approved capacity, review parking arrangements and assess evacuation plans and disaster management preparedness during emergencies.

The state government has directed officials to identify safety gaps and issue corrective instructions wherever deficiencies are found. Establishments with serious violations will face action as per relevant legal provisions.

The decision came after a fire tragedy in Lucknow's Aliganj area, where concerns were raised over alleged violations of building safety norms. The incident prompted the Uttar Pradesh government to announce stricter enforcement of fire safety regulations and prohibit coaching centres and commercial activities from operating in basements.

Following the Lucknow incident, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed officials to ensure strict compliance with fire safety and disaster management rules, with a focus on preventing unauthorised use of buildings and spaces not approved for commercial activities.

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