Mumbai Fire Brigade Launches Year-End Fire Safety Drive After Goa Nightclub Tragedy

In the wake of the recent nightclub fire tragedy in Goa and the expected surge in New Year celebrations, the Mumbai Fire Brigade will conduct a special fire safety campaign from December 22 to 28 across hotels, restaurants, pubs, bars, malls, party halls, and other crowd-prone establishments.

During this drive, any violations of fire safety norms will result in strict action under the Maharashtra Fire Prevention and Life Safety Measures Act, 2006.

This campaign will be carried out under the guidance of Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner and Administrator Bhushan Gagrani and Additional Municipal Commissioner (City) Dr. Ashwini Joshi. Dr. Joshi noted that the recent Goa incident, which caused multiple deaths and injuries, highlights the urgent need for preventive measures. She said Mumbai Fire Brigade is equipped with advanced machinery and tools, and that increased public awareness is key to preventing such tragedies.

Last year, apart from routine inspections, the Fire Brigade conducted a similar special drive, checking 731 establishments across Mumbai. Of these, 12 establishments faced action under the 2006 Act for failing to comply with fire safety norms. No fire incidents occurred at these locations afterward.

Chief Fire Officer Ravindra Ambulgekar said inspections this year will cover restaurants, hotels, bars, pubs, lodges, banquet halls, gymkhanas, crowded malls, and star hotels. Non-compliant establishments will face action under the relevant provisions of the law.

Lifeguards and Boats to Be Deployed at Beaches

As part of New Year’s Eve safety measures, lifeguards, rescue boats, and emergency equipment will be deployed at various Mumbai beaches. Under Section 3(1) of the 2006 Act, building and establishment owners are responsible for implementing fire-prevention and life-safety measures to avoid or control potential fire incidents.

Fire Safety Systems Mandatory and Must Be Certified

According to Section 3(3) of the Act and Rule 4(2), all fire safety systems in buildings must be maintained in good working condition and certified twice a year in January and July by a licensed agency. The list of authorised agencies is available on the Maharashtra Fire Services Directorate website.

Chief Fire Officer Ambulgekar urged all establishments to strictly follow the required fire safety norms to ensure public safety during the festive season.

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