VISAKHAPATNAM: Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) commissioner CM Saikanth Varma said that all commercial establishments, industries, hotels, hospitals, cinema theatres, educational institutions, marriage halls, convention centres, multi-storeyed apartments, and other high-rise buildings within the GVMC limits must maintain fire safety measures and have firefighting equipment.
In an official statement, the commissioner emphasized that this is mandatory for public safety and security. He further said that the staff in the concerned establishments should be trained to handle firefighting equipments and respond to emergencies.
“A no objection certificate (NOC) must be obtained from the state fire department or the fire prevention department of the GVMC. Compulsory mock drills must be conducted every 3 months.
Fire safety inspections commenced on March 14 in all star hotels, multi-storeyed buildings, educational institutions, malls, and similar establishments. Those lacking proper fire safety management will be issued notices and may face legal actions.