7 eateries found violating fire safety norms

Lucknow: In the aftermath of the devastating Delhi hotel fire that killed 21 people, Lucknow fire department on Wednesday launched a safety audit of major eateries and restaurants in Hazratganj and Aminabad areas and found seven establishments violating the norms. The eateries inspected are among Lucknow’s most frequented dining destinations and witness heavy daily footfall.Officials checked fire extinguishers, emergency exits, evacuation routes and other fire safety arrangements to assess preparedness in the event of an emergency. Special focus was on establishments in congested commercial areas where evacuation can become difficult in case of a blaze.“Seven establishments inspected were found violating fire safety norms and separate notices detailing the deficiencies will be issued to their management, directing them to rectify shortcomings within stipulated time,” said FSO, Hazratganj, Ram Kumar Rawat.Fire department records show 147 hotels have been served notices over past year for operating without valid fire clearances or for violating safety norms. Inspections revealed issues such as blocked exits, defective firefighting equipment, inadequate ventilation and unsafe basement kitchens.CFO, Lucknow Ankush Mittal said fresh inspections would continue in the wake of the Delhi tragedy and warned that persistent violators could face stringent action, including cancellation of fire NOCs and sealing of premises.