As Christmas and New Year's Eve approach, the district administration in Noida has implemented stringent new regulations for venues hosting celebrations. In a decisive move, officials have made fire safety no-objection certificates (NOCs) and prior official permission compulsory for all hotels, pubs, restaurants, clubs, banquet halls, and farmhouses planning parties or performances.
Strict Mandate Following Goa Tragedy
The heightened focus on safety protocols comes in the wake of the devastating nightclub fire in Goa earlier this month, which claimed over 20 lives. This incident prompted authorities nationwide to reassess safety measures at crowded venues. District Magistrate Medha Roopam stated that for any event during the festive period, organizers must secure prior approval through the Nivesh Mitra portal. She emphasized that a valid fire NOC, along with clearances for electrical safety, ventilation, and public safety arrangements, is now compulsory.
Officials have warned that any violation could lead to severe consequences, including the shutdown of events and legal proceedings against the organizers. To ensure compliance, joint inspection teams from the fire department, excise department, and electrical safety wing conducted surprise checks on December 8 and 9, surveying more than 30 pubs and nightclubs across the district.
Intensified Inspections and Non-Negotiable Rules
Chief Fire Officer Pradeep Chaubey announced that inspections will be intensified in the lead-up to the year-end festivities. The focus will be on high-footfall locations like pubs, clubs, banquet halls, and farmhouses. Chaubey made it clear that a fire NOC is non-negotiable. He directed venues to ensure all fire extinguishers, alarms, and emergency exits are fully functional and easily accessible.
In a significant clarification, Chaubey noted that even permanent establishments with valid fire clearances are not exempt. "Bars, hotels, pubs, and restaurants are required to hold a permanent fire NOC, valid for three years. However, they must also obtain a separate fire NOC for special events planned for Christmas and New Year celebrations," he explained. Currently, about four applications from malls and commercial complexes seeking fire clearance for Christmas Day events are under review.
Liquor Licenses and Emergency Preparedness
Alongside fire safety, the excise department has laid down its own set of rules. District Excise Officer Subodh Kumar stated that an occasional bar licence is now mandatory for serving liquor at any private or commercial party. "Only liquor approved for sale in Uttar Pradesh is permitted. If alcohol from other states is found, or if any norms are violated, strict legal action will follow under the Excise Act and other laws," Kumar warned.
Venue operators have also been instructed to revisit their emergency response plans and conduct mock drills. This is to ensure that staff are fully prepared to manage peak crowds and handle any unforeseen incidents during the celebratory rush.
The administration's proactive stance, triggered by the recent tragedy, aims to prevent any such mishap in Noida and ensure that the festive season is both joyful and safe for all revellers.
