In a devastating weekend, two separate incidents in Rajkot and Delhi resulted in the deaths of 42 people, including 16 children. Both tragedies were marked by serious lapses in fire safety and preventive measures, highlighting a systemic failure to protect lives.
Fire at Rajkot Gaming Zone
In Rajkot, a massive fire broke out at the TRP gaming zone, claiming 35 lives, including nine children. The gaming center was crowded with visitors due to summer vacations, the weekend, and a special ticket discount of Rs 99.
As per the preliminary investigations, the fire started during welding work, with sparks igniting a pile of plastic. CCTV footage suggests that the workers’ attempts to extinguish the fire failed, and the flames quickly spread. A temporary structure near the entrance collapsed, trapping many people inside.
ALSO READ: “Massive Fire in Rajkot Gaming Zone Claims 28 Lives, Including Nine Children”
Safety Lapses at Rajkot
The investigation into the Rajkot tragedy uncovered multiple safety lapses-
- Non-functional Fire Equipment: Fire-fighting equipment was present but not operational.
- Unopened Fire Equipment: The equipment was still wrapped and unused.
- No Fire NOC: The gaming zone had not obtained a Fire No Objection Certificate (NOC).
- Lack of Permission: The zone operated rides without proper permissions.
- Illegal Structure: The gaming zone was built under a tin shed without necessary approvals.
- Inadequate Emergency Exits: Only one emergency exit was available, contrary to requirements for multiple exits in public buildings.
Delhi Hospital Fire
In Delhi, a fire at the Baby Care New Born Hospital in Vivek Vihar led to the deaths of seven infants. This incident also highlighted severe negligence in adhering to safety regulations.
Safety Lapses at Delhi Hospital
- Expired License: The hospital was operating with an expired license.
- No Fire Extinguishers: There were no fire extinguishers or emergency exits.
- No Fire NOC: The building lacked a Fire No Objection Certificate.
- Unauthorized Oxygen Refilling Center: An unauthorized oxygen refilling center was present on the premises.
- Unqualified Doctors: There were reports of unqualified doctors being on duty.
ALSO READ: “Seven Newborns Killed in Massive Fire at Delhi Children’s Hospital”
Gujarat High Court’s Response
Following the Rajkot fire, the Gujarat High Court call it a “man-made disaster.” The court criticized the state government and municipal corporations for allowing such entertainment zones to operate without necessary approvals and safety measures.
The court directed municipal corporations of Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, and Rajkot to explain the legal provisions under which these units were allowed to operate. The bench pointed out that such gaming zones often exploit loopholes in regulations, posing significant threats to public safety, especially to children.
These tragic incidents in Rajkot and Delhi have exposed glaring inadequacies in fire safety and regulatory enforcement. As families mourn their losses, there is a pressing need for stricter safety measures and accountability to prevent such disasters in the future.
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