Odisha Fire Safety Drive Identifies Major Safety Lapses; Over 3,400 Establishments Issued Notices
Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Fire and Emergency Services Department has completed its month-long statewide fire safety campaign, “Surakshita Odisha, Bikasita Odisha,” uncovering significant gaps in fire safety compliance across various establishments in the state.
The campaign was launched to strengthen public safety and contribute to Odisha’s vision of sustainable development.
During the intensive drive, officials inspected 4,605 establishments, including high-rise residential buildings, educational institutions, hospitals, commercial complexes, and industrial units.
The inspections revealed widespread deficiencies in fire safety measures, prompting authorities to issue 3,404 notices to establishments found violating prescribed safety norms or lacking required documentation.
Authorities also identified serious deviations from approved building plans in nearly 200 establishments.
Legal proceedings have reportedly been initiated against such violators to ensure strict compliance with fire safety regulations.
As part of its modernisation efforts, the Fire and Emergency Services Department is developing a dedicated mobile application that will enable citizens to verify the fire safety certification status of public establishments such as malls, hotels, hospitals, and commercial buildings.
The department is also creating a comprehensive 3D building mapping database to improve emergency response capabilities.
The digital system will help firefighters quickly access critical information, including building layouts, entry and exit points, locations of firefighting equipment, and available water sources during emergencies.
To further improve public services, a 24×7 Control Room has been established at the Command Centre in Bhubaneswar to assist citizens and business owners with Fire Safety Certificates and No Objection Certificates (NOCs).
The department has also launched a dedicated WhatsApp helpline, 9237046977, through which queries and grievances can be addressed.
Officials said efforts are underway to integrate artificial intelligence-based support into the system for faster responses.
The campaign highlights the state’s commitment to enhancing fire safety standards and ensuring greater preparedness to protect lives and property across Odisha.
