The Pune Municipal Corporation estimates that around 30,000 properties over PMC limits, including 34 merged areas, are liable for fire safety preparedness audits. However, only 800 to 1,000 certificates are submitted annually to the department. More than 90% of housing societies and commercial properties in Pune do not have certified firefighting systems, making them more susceptible to fire accidents. The PMC is taking necessary measures to make citizens aware of the importance of fire safety preparedness.
According to estimates from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), approximately 30,000 properties beyond PMC limits, including 34 merged areas, are subject to fire safety preparedness audits. However, only 800 to 1,000 certificates are submitted to the department each year.
It is crucial for every housing society and commercial property to comply with all necessary requirements, including certified firefighting systems, to ensure smooth functioning and avoid potential mishaps resulting in loss of life. Unfortunately, in Pune, over 90% of housing societies and commercial properties lack certified firefighting systems, making them more susceptible to fire accidents due to poorly managed fire extinguishers and lack of fire safety preparedness.
With the peak season of electricity consumption approaching, the fire brigade department in Pune has taken the responsibility of making citizens aware of fire safety preparedness for properties. The risk of short circuits increases during this period, and it is essential for people to consider fire safety measures as a life-saving measure, rather than a mere formality. The chief fire officer of PMC has stated that owners of non-compliant properties will face penalties, including fines of Rs. 50,000, a jail term of six months, or both.
In housing societies, the responsibility of having adequate and certified firefighting systems lies with the management committee, while in individual properties, owners are responsible. Owners and occupiers of these properties must provide proof to auditors that their firefighting systems are fool proof and well-maintained. Failure to comply may result in penalties and legal action.
The issue of fire safety preparedness in housing societies and commercial properties is a critical concern that needs to be addressed with utmost urgency. With the increasing risk of fire accidents, it is imperative that all buildings have adequate and certified firefighting systems in place. The PMC's efforts to conduct fire safety preparedness audits and penalize non-compliant owners are laudable steps toward ensuring the safety and security of citizens.
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