Kochi: In state-wide drive conducted in the wake of the recent fire accidents at several parts of the state, the fire and rescue department has found that 1,103 of a total of 1,582 high-rises it inspected ----two thirds of the total--have failed to adhere to building rules. Among them, grave violations were found in 201 buildings.
According to the officials, the district fire officers will submit the reports of the inspection to the respective district collectors and local self-government institutions seeking action.
Director (technical) of fire and rescue department R. Prasad told DC on Wednesday that reports against 706 buildings have been prepared and the remaining 397 are being processed. "As of now, reports against 505 buildings have been submitted to the respective local self government institutions indicating the unsafe conditions of the buildings," he said. "Reports on building with grave violations have been submitted to the district collectors who head the district disaster management authority." Mr. Prasad said besides lack of firefighting systems, major violations including changes effected in building structure. "Obstructions in the entry/exit doors and emergency doors, dumping combustible materials in dangerous spots, changing structure of the terrace and closure of ventilations that are mandatory were found in most of the high-rises and other industrial buildings inspected by the officials," he said, adding that notices will be issued to the building owners. Some of the buildings are likely to lose their licenses, he indicated.
Officials said a rescue team will be selected and deployed in each building for prevention of any untoward incidents. The state-wide drive, which started a week ago, will continue till March 15.
