Kolkata: The Kolkata Municipal Corporation is allowing rooftop cafes, lounges and bars to reopen in the city under new safety guidelines.
All these 83 outlets were issued stop-operation notices in May following a deadly hotel fire in Burrabazar.
These reopened establishments must provide an indemnity bond promising compliance with fire safety measures within 3 months.
The new SOPs have been developed by a panel of ministers and senior officials. These aim to balance business needs with public safety as the festive season approaches.
The new SOP states that no construction will be allowed on a refuge area or a refuge floor. At least 50 per cent of any rooftop must remain completely clear of structures.
Establishments cannot occupy the road-facing portion of terraces. These must stay accessible for emergency evacuations. The fire department’s hydraulic ladders must reach people during emergencies.
This 50 per cent clearance rule applies only to existing structures. No new rooftop construction will be permitted going forward.
The state government also plans to enact legislation preventing the sale of terrace portions.
Entire terraces will become common rights for all building residents and tenants.
The guidelines also apply to shopping malls, schools, factories, hotels and restaurants. All of them must undergo fire safety audits for annual license renewal.
Implementing the guidelines takes time and with the festive season approaching, the establishments were allowed to open and implement the guidelines within three months.
The KMC, Kolkata Police and the fire department will conduct inspections after the three-month compliance period. Establishments failing to meet the guidelines will be shut down.
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KMC Plans Joint Inspections of Rooftop Outlets with Fire and Excise Directorates
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