NKDA kicks off fire safety inspection drive in New Town
Times of India | 4 May 2025
123 Kolkata: Following the repeated fire incidents in the city, the New Town Kolkata Development Authority (NKDA) has started a two-day inspection drive covering 227 building premises across New Town. The focus is on fire safety and compliance, especially in residential structures where commercial activities are taking place.
NKDA officials said that the objective of the drive is to examine compliance with regard to fire safety protocols and regulatory approvals.
Six inspection teams, each comprising three members, were formed to conduct the drive under the close supervision of senior officials. The teams include representatives from both the assessment section and the surveillance teams to conduct a coordinated and technically sound review of each premise.
"The inspection aims to assess the fire hazard implications of mixed-use buildings, verify the presence and validity of Fire No Objection Certificates (NOCs), and examine on-ground preparedness, such as the availability of fire extinguishers, hydrants, and awareness among occupants regarding their usage," said an NKDA official.
"The drive is conducted at premises that have already obtained NOC from NKDA, and those operating without any such approvals. Dedicated documentation is being maintained for the latter category to facilitate further regulatory action wherever necessary," said an official.
While the majority of the premises are being inspected within the scheduled two-day period, the remaining locations will be covered after a few days. Certain premises, including pre-schools that are found to be locked at the time of visit, will be re-inspected on Monday. "The exercise will continue until all identified sites are duly covered," said an official.