Make KR Market fire-safe: HC

The high court on Thursday directed the BBMP to comply with the observations made by the fire brigade with regard to fire safety measures to be implemented in the KR Market within two weeks and submit a compliance report of the same.

A division bench headed by Acting Chief Justice L Narayana Swamy was hearing a PIL filed by the Bengaluru Flower Merchants’ Association challenging the construction of illegal shops in KR Market.

The BBMP commissioner was also present before the court in response to the court’s direction on his appearance and submitted that he would comply with the observations.

The corporation submitted that it would ensure the free movement of fire fighting vehicles around the market within two weeks.

The fire department has issued a 19 point observation to be followed by the Palike to ensure fire safety and prevent fire accidents in the market.

The observations were made after the department conducted an inspection of the market and found various violations pertaining to fire and safety and setting up of illegal structures (shops) in KR Market.

The civic body also stated that it would submit the details pertaining to illegal construction of shops in markets, particularly Russell Market, K R Market and Madivala Market as sought by the court in the next date of hearing. It will also submit the details pertaining to the steps taken for demolition of alleged illegal shops in these markets.

The court adjourned the hearing of the case to April 3.