BY ASHOK KUMAR NIRBHAY
New Delhi: Following the devastating fire incident at Lemon Green Restaurant in Malviya Nagar, concerns over fire safety standards in commercial establishments across the national capital have intensified. Sahil Gangwal, Deputy Chairman of the West Zone Ward Committee and Municipal Councillor from Madipur Ward-93, has warned that a similar tragedy could occur at Punjabi Bagh Club Road if authorities fail to take immediate action against pubs, bars, and discotheques allegedly operating without adequate safety measures.
Addressing the media, Gangwal held the BJP government responsible for the circumstances that led to the fatal fire at Lemon Green Restaurant, claiming that lapses in enforcement and monitoring of safety regulations have put public lives at risk. He said that the tragedy should serve as a wake-up call for authorities to conduct strict inspections of commercial establishments throughout the city.
Gangwal specifically raised concerns about the growing number of pubs, bars, and discos operating on Punjabi Bagh Club Road. According to him, several establishments are allegedly functioning without proper licenses and without complying with mandatory fire and safety norms. He warned that if corrective measures are not taken immediately, the area could witness a disaster similar to the Malviya Nagar fire.
“The safety of citizens cannot be compromised. Commercial establishments that attract large crowds must strictly adhere to fire safety regulations, maintain emergency exits, install firefighting equipment, and possess all required approvals from the concerned departments,” Gangwal said.
He further alleged that repeated complaints regarding safety violations in some establishments have not been addressed effectively. He called upon the concerned authorities, including municipal bodies, the Delhi Fire Service, and licensing agencies, to conduct a comprehensive inspection drive on Club Road and take stringent action against violators.
Gangwal emphasized that public safety should be treated as a top priority and that any negligence in enforcing safety standards could have severe consequences. He urged authorities to ensure that all pubs, bars, and entertainment venues comply with legal requirements and maintain adequate emergency preparedness measures.
Referring to the Malviya Nagar fire incident, Gangwal stated that accountability must be fixed and lessons must be learned to prevent similar occurrences elsewhere in the city. He stressed that regular monitoring and strict enforcement of safety regulations are essential to avoid future tragedies.
The councillor concluded by warning that unless immediate action is taken against establishments allegedly operating without proper licenses and safety clearances, Punjabi Bagh Club Road could face a major fire disaster, putting hundreds of lives at risk. He called for urgent intervention to safeguard citizens and ensure that all commercial venues operate in accordance with the law.
