A fire that broke out at Jia Apartments, opposite Anjuman school on Bellasis Road is unearthing several skeletons in the cupboard for the BMC. Residents of housing complex had complained against the presence of illegal godowns in the basement of their buildings five years ago. They are of the opinion that the fire could have been avoided if BMC had taken action on these complaints back in 2013. Even the fire brigade had expressed its opposition against the godowns.
As per the Development Control Regulations, basements should not be used for storing hazardous goods, but the godown where the fire erupted stored inflammable materials like mobile phone batteries.
The assistant engineer, senior inspector and license department of E ward were requested to visit the premises and take stern action. The Fire Brigade’s report dated March 2013 states that during the inspection of the premises, officials found trade activity being carried out in the basement which is highly objectionable keeping the fire risk and life safety in mind.
Sayyad Ahmed Hussain, chairman of the building told that complaints had been made to every possible authority, from police to the BMC, yet no action was taken. He added that they had also sought an indemnity bond from the godown fearing such an incident. The local Corporator Rais Shaikh alleged that the godown was illegal instead of sealing the premises, the authorities chose to overlook the report and hence the BMC officials should be booked for the criminal act.
He further added that four license inspectors knew about this irregularity but did not act, and now as per reports, the society file has gone missing after the fire. Four officers sat on the building's file and one of them is now under suspension, which is barely enough.
Sahebrao Gaekwad, Assistant Municipal Commissioner, E ward said they are yet to check the plans of the building as it was an old one to determine if there was permission issued or not.
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