A recent spate of major fire incidents across Patiala has exposed widespread non-compliance with fire safety regulations, raising serious concerns about the readiness of the city's commercial establishments and industrial units to handle emergencies. Despite explicit provisions under the Punjab Fire and Emergency Service Act, 2024, hundreds of commercial buildings continue to function without meeting mandatory fire safety requirements, endangering both lives and property.
Recent Fire Incidents Highlight Risks
Recent blazes have underscored the enforcement gaps. A massive fire gutted a shop in the congested Gher Sodhiyan market near Lahori Gate, while a short-circuit-induced fire at DK Motors Workshop damaged around 10 vehicles. Other incidents reported from Fountain Chowk, YPS Market and Adalat Bazaar have further spotlighted the issue.
Survey Reveals Alarming Deficiencies
A ground survey conducted by The Tribune in major commercial areas such as Adalat Bazaar, Gher Sodhiyan and several interior markets of the old city uncovered alarming deficiencies. Narrow streets, many measuring just eight to 12 feet in width, have been further encroached upon by shop extensions and criss-crossing overhead cables, severely restricting access for fire tenders during emergencies.
Several multi-storey commercial complexes and coaching centres were found to have expired or poorly maintained fire extinguishers. In many cases, the equipment lacked functional pressure valves. Traders were also found storing highly inflammable materials, including PVC panels, fabric stocks and oil containers, in basements and on rooftops near electrical installations.
Authorities Warn of Strict Action
Assistant Divisional Fire Officer (ADFO) Harinder Pal Singh stated that a large number of high-risk commercial establishments, marriage palaces and high-rise buildings were operating without valid fire no objection certificates (NOCs).
“Many establishments treat the fire NOC as a one-time formality and fail to renew it periodically. During inspections, we often find non-functional hose reels, missing wet riser systems and dry terrace water storage tanks,” he said.
The Fire Department has launched a comprehensive survey of commercial buildings across the city. According to the ADFO, 250 buildings have been inspected so far and violations have been detected in nearly 150 of them, including the absence of valid fire NOCs and breaches of provisions under the Punjab Fire and Emergency Service Act, 2024.
He warned that commercial units failing to obtain valid fire safety clearances or violating prescribed norms would face strict action, including sealing of premises and registration of FIRs under relevant sections of the law.
