Lost in high spirits: Chinks bared in Hyderabad pubs’ fire safety armour

HYDERABAD: Here’s a word of caution for those planning a night of pub-hopping, over the weekend. Surprise checks conducted by civic authorities has revealed that most popular party joints are bereft of all basic fire safety measures: no fire exits, visible exit signages or firefighting equipment. Worse, many of them are illegal constructions that do not comply with the mandatory parking space rule.
As per guidelines, 44% of built-up area in all commercial establishments must be allocated for parking. For multiplexes, it is 66%. Yet, a sizeable number of these upscale pubs, in and around Begumpet, Jubilee Hills, Madhapur and Gachibowli do not abide by it.

While GHMC served notices to all the 650 pubs and bars for violations, only 200 secured a fire safety certificate. “Though 250 had approached us claiming that they have renovated the premises and set up fire safety equipment, after inspecting we found loopholes in 50 of them,” said Vishwajit Kampati, director of EVDM wing, GHMC.
Raising temporary structures without legal permits is another area of concern, say officials. Most of these fixtures, they add, are created using highly inflammable material such as plywood and foam. “Even a small accident can result in a disaster if either catches fire,” said V Papaiah, regional fire officer (central region).
Experts said that pubs and bars must use fire retardant fabric for interiors and exteriors. “The smoke is more dangerous. So, good ventilation, proper evacuation and safety measures are mandatory in places that see large gatherings,” said S P Anchuri, vice-president (south), Structural Engineers World Congress.
Though officials claim that violations are rampant even in star facilities, industry representatives deny such allegations. “All star hotels and outlets that are part of our organisation follow fire safety norms. Even while conducting events we ensure fire safety measures are in place,” said Pradeep Kumar Dutt, secretary general, Hotels and Restaurants Association of Telangana.
“Despite multiple opportunities, pubs have failed to ensure parking space, furnish trade license and fire safety. This crackdown against such establishments will continue,” said Mohammed Musharraf Ali Faruqui, zonal commissioner (Khairatabad), GHMC.