Fire Risks Soar in Illegal Structures Across Hyderabad
Illegal structures in Hyderabad pose significant fire hazards, with 50 percent of buildings deviating from sanctioned plans. The central district is most prone due to dense construction and high occupancy rates, highlighting the urgent need for better regulations and enforcement.
Highlights
- •50%+ of Hyderabad buildings violate permitted plans
- •Focus on commercial establishments and residential areas converted for business use
- •Central Hyderabad identified as a fire hotspot
- •Regulatory bodies like Municipal Corporations not ensuring compliance
Over 50 per cent of buildings in Hyderabad deviate from licensed plans, raising significant fire risks. These illegal structures commonly include commercial premises and houses fraudulently converted for business use, often with unauthorized extra floors or blocked exits to accommodate more occupants.
Focused Areas of Concern
Fire mishaps predominantly occur in commercial establishments, where businesses violate building codes by converting residential spaces into bustling operations. Residents complain about the narrow passages and poor ventilation that create tinderbox conditions during emergencies.
A recent analysis using Geographic Information System (GIS) technology identified central Hyderabad as most prone to fire incidents due to its combination of densely packed, illegally constructed buildings and high occupancy rates. This hotspot analysis highlighted the urgent need for intervention from authorities like the Municipal Corporations and Telangana Fire Disaster Response Emergency and Civil Defence Department.
Despite these warnings, both municipal bodies and HYDRAA (Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency) have not ensured strict compliance with fire safety procedures. Common violations include lack of fire exits, poorly maintained electrical wiring, and unplanned constructions that obstruct rescue efforts. In April 2023, the Telangana fire department issued notices to over 230 hospitals for non-compliance, among other business establishments.
