Delhi govt’s plans to relax certification norms in focus after fire kills 21
The fire at a bed and breakfast accommodation in Hauz Rani has exposed glaring gaps in the Capital’s enforcement of rules and regulations, and raised questions about the wisdom of two recent Delhi government policies – one on bed and breakfasts and a second on fire safety – that propose a more relaxed regime for certification. Delhi police barricade the fire spot where fire broke out yesterday morning, at Hauz Rani in New Delhi. (Raj K Raj/HT) On May 27, the government proposed a new fire safety framework, under which building owners can obtain fire clearances through private fire auditors – they will be empaneled, said the policy – rather than relying solely on inspections by Delhi Fire Services (DFS). The government argued that the move will reduce delays, improve efficiency and bring professional expertise into the certification process. Track Malviya Nagar fire news LIVE updates The policy envisages DFS’s role in certification to only conduct periodic random checks, while private auditors will be empanelled for audit and certifying buildings annually. But experts said the …
