Jabalpur Municipal Corporation (JMC) on Friday sealed SR Mall and two other commercial establishments for alleged violation of fire and building safety norms. The action was taken under the civic body’s ongoing drive to improve public safety following major fire incidents reported in different parts of the country. A joint team of the Fire Department, Building Department, Anti-encroachment Branch and Market Department carried out inspections in Vijay Nagar and Cherital on Friday. Officials inspected fire safety systems, emergency exits, building approvals, lift-related documents, electrical safety and storage of inflammable materials. During inspection, SR Mall in Vijay Nagar was found to have non-functional fire safety systems. Senior officials also said the required building approval and lift-related documents were not produced during inspection. Considering large number of visitors to the mall, the Municipal Corporation sealed the entire premises, including SR Cinema, the food court and Reliance Smart Store.

 

The inspection team also visited Bajaj Enterprises and Paras Agency in Saraswati Colony, Cherital. Officials said both the establishments lacked required fire safety systems. The owners also failed to produce building approval and lift-related documents. Officials further said that large quantities of inflammable materials were stored inside the buildings and electrical connections were found to be unsafe. Since the establishments are located in a residential area, JMC considered the situation a risk to public safety and sealed both premises. The operators have been directed to complete all required compliance related to fire safety, building safety, electrical safety, lift safety and safe storage. The premises will be allowed to reopen only after verification by the concerned departments. JMC administration said no compromise would be made on public safety. Inspections of commercial buildings and public use establishments will continue across the city and strict action will be taken wherever violations are found.