The government had presented a timeline to the high court last December, outlining steps to incorporate security rules into development regulations
Bombay High Court has firmly declined to extend the deadline for the Maharashtra state government beyond May 20 to implement new fire safety regulations, dismissing the excuse citing poll-related activities as a hindrance. These regulations, stemming from the aftermath of the 2009 26/11 terror attacks, have been long overdue for enforcement. The court has repeatedly criticised the government for its lethargic approach to this critical issue.
The government had presented a timeline to the high court last December, outlining steps to incorporate security rules into development regulations. However, during the recent hearing, the Additional Government Pleader mentioned potential delays due to upcoming parliamentary elections. The court, led by Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya and Justice Arif Doctor, firmly rebuffed this reasoning, asserting that electoral activities cannot be used as a pretext for failing to comply with court directives.
The court had previously ordered strict adherence to the timeline provided by the government. An affidavit submitted by the chief fire officer detailed measures taken to enhance fire response capabilities in Mumbai, including the establishment of fire stations equipped with specialized equipment. Despite these efforts, there’s a pressing need for the implementation of comprehensive safety regulations to mitigate the risks posed by man-made disasters.
The affidavit also outlined suggestions to improve fire safety, such as conducting regular mock fire drills, spreading awareness about fire prevention, and inviting applications from the public for volunteer firemen. Additionally, emphasis was placed on the importance of regular fire and electrical audits of buildings to prevent mishaps caused by faulty installations.
The response time to fire emergencies in Mumbai, as per the affidavit, falls within the recommended range, thanks to the city’s infrastructure and firefighting capabilities. However, the implementation of stringent safety regulations remains imperative to further bolster preparedness and minimize risks to life and property.
Overall, the Bombay High Court’s firm stance underscores the critical importance of prioritizing public safety, especially in densely populated urban areas like Mumbai. It emphasizes the need for proactive measures and timely enforcement of regulations to prevent and mitigate the impact of disasters.
