Odisha fire department issues notices to 800 buildings over safety violations

The Odisha Fire and Emergency Service (OFES) has issued notices to approximately 800 buildings and establishments across the state for failing to meet mandatory fire safety certification requirements. The violations affect a wide range of sectors, including 258 residential complexes, 172 hotels, 100 educational institutions, 63 industrial units, 86 mercantile buildings, 43 healthcare facilities, 34 places of assembly, and 32 business establishments.

In response to these findings and recent fire incidents in uncertified buildings, the department is launching a month-long enforcement and awareness campaign titled ‘Surakshit Odisha, Vikashit Odisha’ starting September 15. The initiative will involve intensive preventive audits, inspections, and workshops designed to improve compliance and educate building owners, occupiers, and stakeholders on fire prevention and emergency response measures.