Bhubaneswar: The death of three members of a family in a blaze at an apartment in Laxmisagar on Wednesday has reignited concerns over the lack of fire safety measures in Bhubaneswar’s multi-storey residential complexes and high-rises. The city has seen at least three apartment fires in the past six months, underscoring the urgent need for stricter enforcement of safety norms.Under the Odisha Fire Prevention and Fire Safety Rules, 2017, residential buildings taller than 15 meters or with five or more floors —including basements and mezzanines — must comply with prescribed safety standards and obtain fire safety certificates.“This apartment had only four floors, so it did not fall under the mandatory provisions. But basic firefighting equipment should have been installed,” a senior fire official said, adding that many multi-storey buildings still lack certification.Citizens voiced frustration at the fire service directorate’s reactive approach. “Officials should publish lists of hospitals, malls, apartments and offices lacking fire safety certificates. Awareness campaigns and mock drills are welcome, but enforcement through regular inspections is essential,” senior lawyer Debasis Das said.Fire officials said efforts are underway. “We are holding meetings to sensitize stakeholders and conducting safety audits to examine structural safety, emergency exits, alarms, extinguishers and adherence to building codes,” deputy fire officer Narayan Dash said.Experts stressed the need for stronger monitoring and punitive action. “Violators can face sealing of premises and prosecution. A strong crackdown is essential to ensure compliance,” retired chief fire officer Brajendu Bhusan Das said.Thousands of residential and commercial establishments, including malls, theatres, hospitals and offices, continue to operate without mandatory fire safety certificates despite being covered under the Odisha Fire Service Act, 1993. “People spend lakhs and crores on interiors and aesthetics but neglect fire safety. Even when equipment is installed, periodic audits are often ignored,” interior designer Swasti Mohanty said.Real estate expert Bimalendu Pradhan blamed corruption and weak enforcement. “Many establishments flout directives mandating online fire safety certificates and occupancy certificates for trade licenses. What is needed now is a statewide audit, public disclosure of compliance status and strict action against violators,” he said.
