According to a civic official, notices have been issued to 17 out of 68 malls in Mumbai over the past week following surprise inspections conducted last month. It was disclosed that 48 of these malls were found to be compliant with fire safety regulations during inspections carried out between May 26 and 30. However, 17 malls received notices for failing to meet these requirements.
The inspections were ordered by BMC commissioner Bhushan Gagrani in response to a tragic fire incident at the TRP Game Zone in Rajkot, Gujarat, on May 25, which resulted in the loss of 28 lives, including children.
"The 17 malls have been served notices under the Maharashtra Fire Prevention and Life Protection Measures Act 2006. They have been given a 30-day period to address the identified shortcomings. Failure to do so will result in further action," stated a release by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation.
In a separate development, the Mumbai Fire Brigade deemed The Mall, located in Malad West, unsafe following a fire incident. The earlier notice issued to the mall has been revoked, and legal proceedings have been initiated against its management. Additionally, steps have been taken to disconnect its power and water supply, as mentioned in the release.
