Surprise inspection uncovers serious fire safety lapses at Chandigarh coaching centres
A surprise inspection conducted by the Fire and Rescue Services Department of the Municipal Corporation in Chandigarh's Sector 34 has exposed multiple violations of fire safety norms at several coaching centres. The drive, led by Dr. Inder Jeet, Joint Commissioner-cum-Chief Fire Officer, along with Station Fire Officers, was prompted by a recent tragic fire at a coaching centre in Aliganj, Lucknow, which claimed at least 15 lives.
Specific violations found during the inspection
During the checks, inspectors identified several critical deficiencies. At one institute, classrooms lacked proper exit signage. At another, all classroom windows were fitted with iron grills, while a third had windows secured with aluminium grills. In one institute, old materials were stored in balcony areas, obstructing movement in case of a fire. Dr. Inder Jeet directed the immediate removal of iron grills.
In another case, classes were being conducted in the basement in violation of building rules. The exit was blocked, and the passage was being used for a different purpose. A notice on the exit route indicated that students were not allowed in the area. At one institute, the fire alarm system at the entry point was non-functional, and at another, the hydrant system was not working. In some centres, hydrant systems were found locked with keys missing.
Risks on upper floors and common entry-exit points
In many centres, classes were being held on upper floors, which could pose a risk during a fire. Almost all buildings had the same entry and exit points. The managements of the concerned institutes were directed to rectify the shortcomings immediately and ensure full compliance with the Chandigarh Fire Safety Regulations.
Dr. Inder Jeet emphasized that coaching centres, due to high student occupancy, must maintain robust fire safety infrastructure and emergency response systems. He also addressed students, making them aware of fire safety rules.
Institutes inspected and background
The educational institutions inspected included Helix Institute, Allen Career Institute, Sri Chaitanya Academy, Alex Institute, Head Master’s Academy, Narayana Coaching Centre, and PW Vidyapeeth. The inspection focused on evaluating firefighting systems, emergency exits, evacuation arrangements, accessibility for rescue operations, and compliance with fire and life safety norms.
Sources indicated that around 105 coaching institutes operate in Sectors 33, 34, and 36. Of these, 20 centres are running without fire safety certificates. Notices have already been issued to them to comply with the norms and obtain fire safety certificates.
