After Chickpet fire scare, GBA orders citywide safety audit, forms special committee

Chief Commissioner Maheshwar Rao issues strict directions, mandates hydrant system, CCTV monitoring, and tough action against unsafe and illegal buildings

In the wake of the recent fire incident in Bengaluru’s busy Chickpet commercial area, the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) has taken serious note of the safety concerns and formed a special high-level committee to prepare a comprehensive report and implement immediate corrective measures.

GBA Chief Commissioner Maheshwar Rao has issued strict instructions to all concerned departments to ensure that such incidents do not recur. As part of this initiative, a joint committee comprising officials from GBA, the Central Zone civic body, the Fire and Emergency Services Department, and the Electricity Supply Department has been constituted. The committee recently visited the fire-affected site at Kumbarapete to conduct a detailed inspection and assess the ground situation.

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The fire had broken out early in the morning at Laxmi Commercial Complex, located in a congested area with narrow roads. Due to limited access for fire engines, firefighters were forced to control the blaze by laying water pipelines from nearly 300 metres away, which significantly delayed the operation. The incident highlighted critical gaps in fire preparedness in densely populated commercial zones.

Taking serious note of this, GBA has made it mandatory to install fire hydrant systems in all major commercial areas across the city. To ensure proper functioning and prevent misuse, authorities have also directed the installation of CCTV cameras for continuous monitoring of hydrant points.

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In a strong warning, GBA has stated that buildings lacking basic fire safety arrangements will be sealed without hesitation. Directions have also been issued to disconnect electricity supply to unauthorised buildings and initiate criminal proceedings against property owners who violate approved building plans. Unsafe structures will be served immediate notices, and corrective action will be enforced strictly.

Additionally, the civic body will hold emergency meetings with traders’ and business associations to raise awareness about fire safety norms and ensure compliance. Special emphasis has also been placed on improving sanitation and cleanliness operations in Chickpet, considering the area’s high footfall and dense commercial activity.