Lucknow tragedy triggers fire safety audit of Bhilai coaching hubs

The Bhilai Municipal Corporation has launched a massive inspection drive targeting coaching institutes across the city following a recent fire tragedy at an animation and coaching centre in Lucknow’s Aliganj.Corporation commissioner Rajiv Kumar Pandey directed civic teams to inspect safety standards at various coaching centres located in the Civic Center area, popularly known as the city’s education hub.During the inspections, civic officials checked fire extinguishers, emergency exit routes, electrical safety mechanisms, and adherence to other mandatory safety protocols. The teams distributed a specific format to the institute operators, directing them to submit comprehensive safety details of their premises to the municipal body within 20 days.Several coaching institutes were found operating without mandatory fire and safety measures during the drive. The civic body sealed these non-compliant establishments for ignoring safety norms. Municipal officials stated that student safety remains the top priority, and stringent action will continue against institutions failing to follow safety regulations.The commissioner said all coaching and educational institutes operating in the city must comply with the prescribed safety standards. Any negligence could endanger student lives. He directed all institutes to submit their safety details and ensure necessary compliance within the stipulated timeframe.