CM Sai orders statewide fire safety audit in CG

Raipur: Alarmed by a series of fatal fire incidents reported across the country, the Chhattisgarh govt has ordered a statewide safety audit of high-rise residential buildings, coaching institutes, hotels, malls and other commercial establishments, warning of strict legal action against institutions found violating fire and building safety norms.Chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai has directed officials to launch a comprehensive inspection drive, saying public safety could not be compromised and that recent tragedies should serve as a warning to plug gaps before disaster strikes.“Any negligence in ensuring the safety of citizens, students and visitors will not be tolerated,” Sai said, directing authorities to enforce prescribed safety standards and take action against defaulters.Later, chief secretary Vikas Sheel instructed divisional commissioners, district collectors, municipal commissioners, chief municipal officers, fire services officials and other departments to immediately begin inspections across the state.