HC directs MCD to monitor Azad market for fire norm violations

The Delhi High Court has recently issued directives to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and the Delhi Fire Services to ensure strict and thorough enforcement of fire safety norms in the Azad Market area of the national capital. The court’s order came in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by the Azad Market Residents Welfare Association.

High Court addresses unauthorized construction

The High Court ruling comes in response to concerns about unauthorized and illegal constructions in the market. The MCD has been lauded for its considerable efforts to clear such structures, but the court emphasized that potential violations of fire norms need to be addressed.

Under Rule 27 of the Delhi Fire Rules, premises susceptible to fire risks will be under scrutiny. The court directed the MCD to regularly monitor the market and ensure that individuals found violating fire norms are promptly identified and referred to the Fire Prevention Wing under Rule 34 of the Delhi Fire Rules.

Furthermore, the court stated that if any individual cases of unauthorized and illegal construction are found in the future, the petitioner, Azad Market Residents Welfare Association, can approach the Special Task Force constituted by the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.

This Special Task Force was established to comprehensively oversee effective and proper enforcement of the provisions of the Master Plan, Unified Building Bye-laws for Delhi, ensure compliance with the provisions of applicable acts, rules and regulations and removal of encroachment and unauthorized construction.

Court allows action against unapproved construction

Additionally, the court provided a path for future cases of unauthorized and illegal construction. The petitioner, the Azad Market Residents Welfare Association, can approach the Special Task Force, constituted by the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, if they come across stray cases of unauthorized construction in the area.

The court's judgment highlights the significance of adhering to fire safety regulations in densely populated commercial areas, acknowledging that safety on the road is a shared responsibility and urging the enforcement of these norms. The court has disposed of the public interest litigation, with the liberty for the petitioner to approach the Special Task Force if the need arises.

This ruling underscores the importance of not only addressing unauthorized constructions but also ensuring the strict enforcement of fire safety standards to protect lives and property in Azad Market and similar areas.

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