Jabalpur Municipal Corporation (JMC) has launched a massive drive against shopkeepers operating business in busy commercial areas without adhering to fire safety norms. Acting on strict instructions from Municipal Commissioner Ramprakash Ahirwar, the Market Department’s licence branch has identified shops storing large quantities of inflammable material without even basic fire safety equipment.

 

Senior officials said several establishments dealing in flammable goods were found operating without mandatory fire extinguishers, posing a serious threat to public safety in crowded market areas. Meanwhile, the Municipal Commissioner made it clear that no compromise would be made where public safety is concerned. Show cause notices will be issued to negligent shopkeepers, and those failing to comply with prescribed fire safety standards will face heavy penalties.

 

He warned that persistent violations could also lead to temporary cancellation of trade licences. Signalling a tough stance, Ahirwar directed market department officials to carry out special inspection drives even on holidays. Surprise checks will now be conducted on Saturdays and Sundays as well. He said the safety of citizens is our top priority. Ignoring fire safety norms in shops dealing with inflammable materials in main markets can invite a major disaster. He added that officers have been instructed to take strict action, including licence cancellation where necessary. Officials conducted the drive were Market Superintendent Rajendra Dubey, Inspector Sandeep Pandey, Amit Joshi and others.