Amid rise in number of major blazes in several high-rise buildings have revealed many non-functional firefighting systems, which block the rescue operations.
To enforce compliance, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has proposed to the Director of Maharashtra Fire Services that property tax bills include penalties for violating the Fire Prevention Act.
The Maharashtra Fire Prevention & Life Safety Measures Act, 2006, mandates that building owners maintain fire safety systems. They must submit a "Form B" certificate twice yearly, confirming the upkeep of safety measures.
The Fire Prevention Act allows housing societies up to 120 days to fix any deficiencies in their fire safety equipment. Societies must begin repairs within 30 days to avoid punitive actions.
Despite this, many societies fail to comply, even after repeated warnings from the Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB). In a recent incident in Andheri West, an elderly bedridden person suffocated during a fire. The firefighting system in the building's complex was found to be nonfunctional.
Furthermore, some societies have not even made the necessary repairs within the timelines provided. In December 2024, MFB inspected 641 establishments, including malls, hotels, lodges, and restaurants. Three businesses were found to have nonfunctional firefighting systems. Notices were issued to them instructing them to make repairs.
Common fire safety violations include blocked staircases, missing sprinklers, fire alarms, and smoke detectors.
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