Maharashtra govt issues strict directives against fire and electrical hazards, check details here

The proposal was discussed with Disaster Management Minister Girish Mahajan, who directed officials to examine measures for wider implementation. File Pic

The Maharashtra government has issued new directions to strengthen safety measures against LPG, PNG, fire and electrical hazards across the state.

The order, issued by the Department of Disaster Management, Relief and Rehabilitation on July 17, has been sent to the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) and all district collectors, reported the PTI.

The move follows recent directions from the Bombay High Court regarding the need for systematic compliance to prevent recurring disasters.

Focus on preventing gas explosions and electrical fires

According to officials, the guidelines aim to address incidents such as gas cylinder explosions, electrical fires, industrial accidents, chemical mishaps and firecracker factory-related incidents.

A senior Disaster Management Department official said all districts must ensure proper implementation of preventive safety measures, as per the PTI.

The directive emphasises that disaster management should focus not only on relief after incidents but also on preventing accidents before they occur.

Safety systems proposed for new buildings

Under the proposed framework, newly constructed residential, commercial, industrial and public buildings may be required to install Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)-certified gas leak detection systems.

These systems will include automatic gas shut-off mechanisms to reduce the risk of LPG and PNG-related accidents, the news agency reported.

The proposal also recommends installing Earth Leakage Circuit Breakers (ELCB) and Residual Current Circuit Breakers (RCCB).

These devices are aimed at reducing the risk of electrical short-circuit fires.

Occupancy certificates linked to safety checks

The proposed system requires municipal authorities, corporations and gram panchayats to physically verify the functioning of safety equipment before issuing Completion Certificates and Occupancy Certificates.

Officials said this would ensure that safety systems are operational before buildings are occupied.

‘Jansuraksha Yojana' to promote public safety

The government's move follows suggestions from public safety activist and Bombay High Court advocate Vikas B Patil-Shirgaonkar, who submitted a blueprint for implementing the ‘Jansuraksha Yojana' under the Disaster Management Act, according to the PTI.

The proposal was discussed with Disaster Management Minister Girish Mahajan, who directed officials to examine measures for wider implementation.

LPG-safe village model to be expanded

Officials said Mahajan also reviewed the safety model adopted in Wajewadi village, which was developed as an LPG explosion-safe village.

The government is considering expanding similar safety practices across Maharashtra.

Patil-Shirgaonkar said preventive safety should be treated as a legal responsibility by builders, housing societies and citizens to protect lives and property, the news agency reported.

(with PTI inputs)