Patna: The Fire Department in Patna has issued a final warning to 239 hotels and private hospitals for failing to comply with fire safety standards, stating that strict action, including sealing of premises, may be taken after June 15.
The move comes amid heightened scrutiny of safety arrangements across public-use buildings in the state following recent fire-related incidents in Bihar.
Inspection Findings Across Hospitals and Hotels
According to official data from the fire safety audit conducted last year, a total of 462 private hospitals in Patna were inspected. Of these, 384 hospitals were found compliant with prescribed norms, while 78 hospitals were flagged for failing to meet required safety standards.
Officials noted deficiencies including outdated firefighting systems, inadequate emergency exits, and unsafe electrical wiring in several facilities.
In a parallel inspection of 241 hotels in Patna district, only 80 establishments were found compliant. The remaining hotels were identified as lacking essential fire safety equipment and operational preparedness.
Final Notice and Recommended Action
The Fire Department has already issued three notices to defaulting establishments. Officials said 161 hotels and 78 hospitals have still not implemented required safety measures despite repeated warnings.
During a recent inspection, teams found that 30 hotels and 30 hospitals continued to violate norms even after earlier directives. Following this, the District Fire Commandant has recommended sealing action against these units.
District Fire Commandant Ritesh Kumar Pandey said several serious lapses were recorded during inspections and a proposal for enforcement action has been sent to higher authorities in the fire services department.
Government Response After Muzaffarpur Incident
The crackdown follows a recent fire incident at a private hospital in Muzaffarpur that resulted in multiple fatalities, prompting a statewide review of hospital safety systems.
Bihar Minister for Information and Public Relations and Rural Development Shrawon Kumar said a high-level inquiry team has been formed to investigate the incident. He added that strict action will be taken if negligence or regulatory violations are established.
Statewide Safety Push
The state government has initiated a broader review of disaster preparedness and fire safety compliance in hospitals and public establishments. Officials said the objective is to ensure strict adherence to safety norms to prevent future tragedies.
The government has also assured support to affected families and stated that public safety will remain the top priority in enforcement decisions.
