These schools, situated in densely populated areas, have yet to obtain necessary approvals for their buildings and apply for fire NOCs. The gravity of the situation extends beyond schools, with approximately 20 per cent of government offices also receiving notices from the Fire Department for neglecting to seek fire NOCs
Fire safety concerns have emerged as a issue in a significant number of government schools across Faridabad district in Haryana, with reports indicating a lack of adherence to essential safety norms. Out of approximately 380 government schools in the district, a substantial majority are found wanting in this aspect.
According to a source within the district administration, “At least 75 per cent of government schools have either failed to apply for the fire NOC or do not fulfill conditions for getting the NOC from the Fire Department.” Additionally, an official from the Fire Department highlighted that around 30 per cent of private schools in the area are operating without adequate fire safety arrangements.
Concerns deepen as it’s revealed that many educational institutions, both government and private, lack essential fire fighting arrangements mandated for establishments catering to a large number of students and staff. An anonymous official stressed, “Though 850 out of the total 1,120 private schools have taken the NOC, up to 30 per cent of these have failed to comply with the norms.”
These schools, situated in densely populated areas, have yet to obtain necessary approvals for their buildings and apply for fire NOCs. The gravity of the situation extends beyond schools, with approximately 20 per cent of government offices also receiving notices from the Fire Department for neglecting to seek fire NOCs.
Residents like Vishnu Goel express deep concern, highlighting the negligence towards fire safety in educational institutions. “Most schools are functioning without even basic fire safety amenities on their premises,” Goel remarked, emphasizing the urgent need for rectification.
Recognising the potential hazards posed by the lack of fire safety measures, an official from the Fire Department stressed the importance of schools maintaining adequate firefighting equipment given their large building structures and significant foot traffic.
While the District Education Officer (DEO) could not be reached for comment, Divisional Commissioner Sanjay Joon assured that fire safety norms would be enforced across all educational institutions. Additional Divisional Fire Officer Staywan Samriwal affirmed the ongoing efforts of relevant departments in regularly addressing and advocating for the implementation of fire safety rules in schools and government offices.