The Hindu : Andhra Pradesh / Hyderabad News : Panel seeks time to install fire-fighting systems

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Thursday, Mar 22, 2007
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Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh - Hyderabad

Panel seeks time to install fire-fighting systems

M. Srinivas

Fire Services Department can take strict action if orders are not complied with

HYDERABAD: A high-power committee constituted to suggest fire safety measures in existing buildings between 15 and 18 metres of height in the twin cities has recommended that six months' time be given to install "reasonable" fire-fighting systems in them.

Thereafter, the Fire Services Department can take strict action if the orders are not complied with, it said in a report submitted to the High Court. The Government had issued an order accepting the panel report earlier this month based on HC directions.

Stringent steps

Headed by Municipal Administration Secretary, the committee had mooted some stringent steps against owners and occupiers if they do not provide fire safety measures under provisions of National Building Code, Fire Services Act, 1999 and Hyderabad Municipal Corporation Act, 1955.

Not only can they be prosecuted but the builders, firms, architects and structural engineers of both multi-storied (above 18 metres) and otherwise (less than 18 metres) not complying can be blacklisted. MCH had sealed three commercial structures above 18 metres already.

Special courts

The panel wanted constitution of special courts to deal with violations and amendment to the Andhra Pradesh Fire Services Act to enhance the punishment from three months now and also a one per cent surcharge on property tax as Fire Tax for strengthening the department.

Fire safety systems were mandatory for non-residential buildings of 500 square metres and more irrespective of height and educational buildings of above six metres height. Technical steps suggested include means of access for rescue and fire fighting operations, open space of six metres around for movement of fire vehicles.

If all-round setbacks were not possible, flat owners can provide partition in place of compound wall for enabling joint access space of six metres with radius of nine metres at corners. Power safety measures, emergency lights, fire alarm, portable fire extinguishers, etc., are other measures in the list.

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