Key facts
- Delhi government is considering making fire safety measures mandatory in low-rise residential buildings.
- The proposed measures include smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
- Buildings under 15 meters tall are currently exempt from fire safety certificate requirements.
- Recent fire incidents have led to the government's consideration of these new bylaws.
The Delhi government is contemplating the implementation of new bylaws that would mandate fire safety measures, such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, in low-rise residential buildings. This move comes in response to a series of fatal fire incidents that have occurred recently in the city, including those in Malviya Nagar, Vivek Vihar, and Palam.
Officials stated that the government is actively reviewing recommendations to make these safety features compulsory, particularly for residential structures measuring less than 15 meters in height. Under the current regulations, such buildings are not required to obtain fire safety certificates. Presently, fire safety installations like hydrants, extinguishers, and smoke detectors are primarily mandated for high-rise buildings and structures that necessitate a fire no objection certificate (NOC).