Growing alarm as just 329 out of 8,728 hospitals meet mandatory fire protection norms—raising urgent safety concerns
In Karnataka, a startling discovery has exposed a widespread and dangerous oversight: of the state’s 8,728 registered hospitals, only 329 have obtained the fire safety approvals required under the National Building Code. Of these, a mere 14 are government-run hospitals, while 315 are privately owned. This leaves 2,864 government and 5,535 private hospitals operating without essential safeguards—despite rising incidents of fire-related emergencies.
Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao revealed this during a legislative council session, noting that fire safety was not previously prioritised. However, last year’s recurrence of three fire accidents prompted a full audit, laying bare the alarming compliance gap.
To rectify the situation, officials estimate an expense of around ₹550 crore would be required to secure fire safety clearances for all hospitals. The government has pledged to implement upgrades in phases and release funds gradually.
Why this matters
Hospitals are spaces where the most vulnerable seek healing—not face hazards. Far too many institutions in Karnataka currently lack basic fire protection, endangering patients and staff alike. Government hospitals are particularly vulnerable, with less than 1 per cent having completed compliance, even though they deliver care to the largest population segment. The high cost of rectification underscores both the scale of the problem and the urgency required to address it. A phased upgrade is a step in the right direction, but the stakes could not be higher—and every day of delay risks lives.