Jammu: In a major initiative to enhance public safety and prevent fire-related incidents, the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) has issued notices to nearly 200 private hospitals, nursing homes, hotels, lodges, and other high-footfall commercial establishments 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, IAS, who has emphasized the need for strict compliance with fire safety norms and stated that public safety cannot be compromised under any circumstances.
The drive has been launched in view of growing concerns over 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 marked emergency exits poses a significant threat to human life and public property.
The Commissioner has directed all defaulting establishments to submit copies of valid Fire Safety NOCs within seven days of receiving the notices. These notices have been issued under the provisions of the Jammu & Kashmir Municipal Corporation Act, 2000, along 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 required Fire Safety NOC within the stipulated period, or the operation of any establishment 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 are solely responsible for ensuring compliance with all prescribed fire safety standards. Any untoward incident resulting from 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 & Emergency Services Department and submit them to the JMC Enforcement Wing to avoid punitive action and ensure public safety.
