One-Month Window for Shops to Meet Fire Norms, Tough Action After Deadline: HYDRAA

In response to a series of recent fire accidents, the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has announced a one-month grace period before taking coercive action against shops and commercial complexes that fail to comply with fire safety norms . The decision aims to give traders time to rectify safety deficiencies while making it clear that enforcement will turn strict after the deadline , with authorities warning of zero tolerance for violations.

The decision was taken at a meeting chaired by HYDRAA Commissioner A.V. Ranganath, attended by trade association representatives, shop owners, and officials from the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation, fire services, police, and the electricity department. Officials explained safety requirements in detail and said establishments earlier sealed during joint inspections may be allowed to reopen after owners submit affidavits assuring compliance. The move follows appeals from trader bodies seeking time to meet the mandated standards.

Authorities said recent joint drives uncovered serious lapses in commercial areas, prompting immediate action including sealing of premises and power disconnections in high-risk buildings. The crackdown intensified after a fatal blaze in Nampally highlighted the consequences of inadequate safety measures. Officials stressed that the grace period should be used to install required systems rather than delay compliance.

As part of preventive efforts, HYDRAA will roll out fire safety awareness programmes in dense commercial localities such as Begum Bazaar, Troop Bazaar and Madina Centre. Pamphlets outlining regulations will be distributed, and meetings will be conducted in markets to educate traders on emergency response. Officials are also screening videos of past fire incidents to explain causes and preventive steps.

Commissioner Ranganath cautioned against converting cellars into storage godowns or living spaces, noting that escape becomes extremely difficult during emergencies. Referring to the Nampally incident, he reiterated that basements should be used only for parking , which would also ease traffic congestion in busy trade zones. Authorities further directed establishments to install and maintain automatic sprinklers, smoke detectors, and fire extinguishers , use quality electrical wiring , and avoid circuit overloading. Residential use or canteens in cellars have been strictly prohibited.