The court referred to its previous order on July 31, 2024, where it had hoped that the final notification for the Development Control and Promotion Regulations
The Bombay High Court has issued a stern warning, threatening to halt all development activities in Mumbai if the state government fails to enforce fire safety regulations. The court expressed its frustration over the government’s delay in implementing these crucial measures, which are aimed at preventing fire-related tragedies in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
A division bench comprising Chief Justice Devendra Upadhyaya and Justice Amit Borkar made this statement during a hearing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by advocate and social activist Abha Singh. Singh has been advocating for the enforcement of fire safety rules drafted in 2009, which are designed to safeguard buildings vulnerable to man-made disasters.
The bench hinted at taking strong action, stating, “On the next date, we may consider passing an order to suspend all permissions for development granted by various Planning Authorities and Corporations, at least within Mumbai.” This potential freeze on development reflects the court’s growing concern over the safety of buildings and the lives of those residing or working in them.
The court referred to its previous order on July 31, 2024, where it had hoped that the final notification for the Development Control and Promotion Regulations (DCPR)-2034 for Greater Mumbai, and the Unified Development Control and Promotion Regulations (UDCPR)-2020 for Maharashtra, would be issued by the state government by the next hearing.
However, during the recent session, Government Pleader Jyoti Chavan presented a communication from the Urban Development Department, dated October 7, 2024, indicating that the necessary files were still being finalized. The court, visibly frustrated by the ongoing delays, recalled its earlier directives and expressed dismay at the government’s failure to act promptly.
The judges noted that despite repeated instructions, the final notification had not yet been issued, and fire-related accidents continue to cause unnecessary loss of life. The court referenced a recent tragic incident in Siddharth Colony, Chembur, where seven family members lost their lives in a fire.
The proposed amendments to the DCPR and UDCPR aim to enhance fire safety requirements for all new constructions, ensuring that buildings meet essential fire prevention standards and can handle both natural and man-made disasters. These regulations are intended to make fire safety an integral part of the development process, preventing such tragedies in the future.
The court adjourned the matter until October 11, allowing the government pleader more time to obtain further instructions. If the state government fails to meet the court’s expectations by the next hearing, Mumbai’s development activities may face a significant freeze.
The case, titled *Abha Singh vs State of Maharashtra & Ors*, continues to spotlight the need for swift action in implementing fire safety regulations across the city.