In a major initiative aimed at safeguarding public safety and preventing fire-related mishaps, the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) has issued notices to nearly 200 private hospitals, nursing homes, hotels, lodges, and other high-footfall commercial establishments operating within its municipal limits, directing them to obtain mandatory No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from the Fire and Emergency Services Department.
The action has been initiated under the directions of Jammu Municipal Corporation Commissioner, Dr. Devansh Yadav, who has stressed the need for strict compliance with fire safety norms and underscored that public safety cannot be compromised under any circumstances.
As per the official communique, the drive has been launched in view of serious concerns regarding statutory compliance and emergency preparedness. “The operation of hospitals, hotels, lodges, and other commercial establishments without adequate fire prevention measures, functional firefighting equipment, and clearly demarcated emergency exits poses significant risks to human life and public property,” it read.
The Commissioner has directed all defaulting establishments to submit copies of valid Fire Safety NOCs within seven days from the date of receipt of the notices. These notices have been issued under the provisions of the Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Corporation Act, 2000, read with the applicable Building Bye-Laws and Fire Safety Regulations.
Dr. Yadav stated that ensuring the safety and well-being of citizens remains the foremost priority of the Jammu Municipal Corporation.
He further directed the Enforcement Wing to closely monitor compliance and take stringent action against establishments found violating fire safety norms.
JMC has categorically warned that failure to furnish the requisite Fire Safety NOC within the stipulated period, or the detection of any establishment operating without fire safety clearance upon verification, will invite strict legal action, including the sealing of premises.
The Corporation reiterated that the owners, proprietors, and managements of these establishments bear the sole responsibility for ensuring adherence to all prescribed fire safety standards.
Any untoward incident arising out of negligence or non-compliance shall be the sole responsibility of the concerned management.
Jammu Municipal Corporation has appealed to all defaulting establishments to immediately obtain the necessary clearances from the Fire and Emergency Services Department and submit the same to the JMC Enforcement Wing to avoid punitive action and ensure the safety of citizens.
