Fire dept issues notices to 20 hotels for fire safety violations; gives 45 days to fix lapses

Lucknow: In the wake of the Delhi hotel fire that killed 21 people, the fire department in Lucknow has issued notices to 20 hotels and restaurants for violating fire safety norms during a citywide inspection drive.

Twelve establishments have been given 45 days to rectify structural deficiencies, failing which they may face penalties, cancellation of fire clearances and possible closure, officials said.

The inspections were conducted jointly by the fire department and the Lucknow Development Authority to assess preparedness in high-footfall commercial buildings.

Chief fire officer Ankush Mittal said notices were issued based on the type of violations. Officials noted that while most establishments had basic firefighting equipment, many lacked critical structural safeguards essential during emergencies.

Key deficiencies included absence of multiple emergency exits on each floor, narrow or non-compliant staircases without fire-resistant enclosures, and obstructed evacuation routes. Several buildings also lacked dedicated fire water storage, functional hydrant systems and reliable water supply for firefighting operations.

Inspection teams found emergency exits blocked by furniture or storage, poor signage and inadequate escape planning. In some cases, staircases were not designed to prevent smoke ingress, significantly increasing risk during fires.

Officials said such shortcomings severely hamper evacuation and rescue efforts, with smoke inhalation and delayed exit identified as leading causes of fatalities in commercial fires.

Gaps were also observed in alarm systems, smoke detectors, sprinklers and emergency lighting. Some establishments were operating with expired fire extinguishers or equipment that had not undergone mandatory maintenance checks.

The department has directed all 20 establishments to fix deficiencies and submit compliance reports within the stipulated period. Follow-up inspections will assess adherence.

“Public safety cannot be compromised. Strict action will follow if violations persist,” Mittal said.

500 staff trained in safety drive

The city fire department on Monday continued safety audits at 32 hotels, restaurants and clubs as part of an intensified drive to improve emergency preparedness. Officials checked fire extinguishers, hydrant systems, alarm networks, emergency exits and evacuation routes, while flagging gaps that could hinder response during emergencies. Establishments were directed to maintain all systems in functional condition and ensure compliance with fire safety norms. Alongside inspections, around 500 staff members, including hotel and restaurant employees and club personnel, were trained in fire prevention, evacuation protocols and proper use of firefighting equipment. Demonstrations focused on first response during fires and crowd management.