Delhi govt directs fire department to inspect hotels, nightclubs, restaurants ahead of festive season

With Christmas and New Year round the corner, the Delhi government on Wednesday directed the fire department to carry out an inspection of restaurants, hotels and clubs in the aftermath of the Goa fire incident.

In an official order issued by the DFS Headquarters, the department stated, “In view of the recent fire incident in Goa and the increased risk associated with the upcoming festive season of Christmas and New Year celebration, all Divisional Officers (DOs) and Assistant Divisional Officers (ADOs) of the Delhi Fire Service are hereby directed to undertake immediate and thorough fire safety inspections of public assembly premises such as restaurant, hotel and clubs, etc.”

Officials have been instructed to verify adherence to fire safety norms, particularly compliance with the building bylaws under Rule 33 of the Delhi Fire Service Rules, 2010. The inspections will include checking the functionality of fire prevention systems, exits, alarms and other safety measures commonly required in high-occupancy establishments.

The order further notes that “the inspecting officers to verify the functional status of building by laws pertaining to fire prevention & fire safety measures as specified under Rule 33 of Delhi Fire Service Rules, 2010.”

All officers are required to submit a detailed status report on compliance to the Principal Director’s office through the proper channel. The department aims to complete these inspections promptly to prevent any untoward incidents during the festive period, when crowds typically surge in entertainment and hospitality venues, the order said.