Nagpur: A recent fire safety audit conducted by the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) fire and emergency services department has revealed alarming gaps in compliance with fire safety protocols across the city’s healthcare facilities. Out of 504 registered hospitals, 165—accounting for 30%—do not possess the mandatory no-objection certificate (NOC) for fire safety, raising significant concerns about patient and staff safety.
Key Findings of the Audit:
- Non-compliance: Of the 504 hospitals, 165 lack NOCs, while 339 have obtained approval.
- Inadequate Fire Safety Measures: Among the 339 hospitals with NOCs, only 118 have completed fire audits, and just 241 have installed necessary firefighting equipment.
- Violations of Law: Many hospitals have failed to adhere to the Maharashtra Fire Prevention and Life Safety Measures Act, 2006.
Area-wise Insights:
- Civil Lines (Ramdaspeth & Dharampeth): Out of 133 hospitals, 97 hold NOCs. However, only 9 have completed fire audits, and 69 have installed firefighting measures.
- Dhantoli (Healthcare Hub): Of 69 hospitals, 68 possess NOCs, and all have completed fire audits. However, only 38 have firefighting systems in place.
- Narendra Nagar: Out of 65 hospitals, 47 have NOCs. Yet, only 2 have undergone audits, with 32 equipped with firefighting systems.
- Sakkardara: Out of 59 hospitals, 37 with NOCs show progress, with 4 completing audits and 56 installing firefighting measures.
Response from NMC:
Officiating chief fire officer BP Chandankhede emphasized the critical importance of fire safety, stating, “Hospitals must prioritize patient and staff safety. NMC will enforce compliance through strict measures, including license revocation for non-compliance.”
Broader Context:
This revelation comes amidst growing concerns over fire safety in healthcare institutions across India. A recent fire at the Government Medical College and Hospital in Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu, prompted the state health department to order all government hospitals to complete fire safety audits within a month.
Call to Action:
The Nagpur Municipal Corporation’s findings underscore an urgent need for hospitals to enhance fire safety measures, conduct regular audits, and comply with legal standards to ensure the safety and well-being of patients and healthcare workers.
