Chickpet blaze: GBA orders probe, mandatory fire safety measures

Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) Chief Commissioner M Maheshwar Rao, who visited the spot on Thursday, asked officials to implement precautionary measures to ensure that such incidents do not recur.

Bengaluru: A day after a fire gutted 21 shops in Chickpet, Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) Chief Commissioner M Maheshwar Rao directed officials to form a committee to prevent such incidents.

Rao, who visited the spot on Thursday, asked officials to implement precautionary measures to ensure that such incidents do not recur.

"A committee comprising representatives from the Greater Bengaluru Authority, Central City Corporation, Fire and Emergency Services Department, and Electricity Department will be formed to conduct a detailed inquiry into the causes of the accident and to submit a comprehensive report on effective measures to prevent and control such incidents,” Rao said.

He directed officials to install hydrant systems at key locations and CCTV cameras to monitor the hydrants. He also ordered a comprehensive inspection of the building where the fire occurred.

"Fire safety systems and fire extinguishers must be made mandatory in all commercial buildings within the Chickpet jurisdiction. Seal buildings that fail to install fire safety systems,” Rao said.

Officials will hold a meeting with trade associations to discuss precautionary measures and ensure compliance.

The corporation has decided to disconnect electricity supply to unauthorised buildings, and notices will be issued to halt construction activities.

“If portions constructed in violation of the sanctioned plan are not removed, criminal cases should be registered against the building owners,” Rao said.