Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: In a strong message to commercial and public establishments, the Directorate of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) has cautioned that failure to comply with prescribed fire and life safety norms could result in the suspension or cancellation of operating licences.
The warning follows a series of recent fire incidents, including the fatal blaze at Birch, after which the department issued a comprehensive circular directing all licensing authorities to tighten enforcement of fire safety regulations. The DFES has made it clear that fire safety compliance is a shared and ongoing responsibility, and not merely a procedural requirement at the time of obtaining clearances.
As per the directions, local authorities have been instructed to verify the validity of Fire Safety No Objection Certificates (NOCs) before granting or renewing any trade licence, occupancy certificate or operational permission. Authorities have also been told to promptly alert the DFES about unsafe conditions, violations or hazardous practices detected within their jurisdictions.
The department has stated that any establishment functioning without a valid Fire Safety NOC, or found violating mandatory fire norms, will be liable for immediate regulatory action, including the withdrawal of licences. It reiterated that all occupancies must secure and maintain a fire clearance in accordance with the Goa Fire Force Act, 1986 and the Rules of 1997, and that licences remain valid only so long as the fire clearance is current.
The circular further clarified that prior approval from the DFES is compulsory for any structural modifications, interior changes, alterations to fire detection or suppression systems, or changes to exit and escape routes.
Placing significant emphasis on prevention, the DFES has mandated that access roads, passages, stairways and emergency exits must be kept unobstructed at all times. Establishments have been asked to use fire-resistant materials, ensure proper housekeeping and safely dispose of combustible waste. Electrical systems must conform to Indian Standards, with annual inspections by authorised electricians required in premises vulnerable to fire risks. The use of fireworks, pyrotechnics or open flames has been prohibited unless conducted under approved safety supervision, while LPG storage and gas installations must strictly adhere to prescribed safety guidelines.
On the fire protection front, the department has outlined the need for risk-based fire safety systems, including smoke and heat detection devices, fire alarm systems, sprinklers in high-risk areas, wet-riser or down-comer arrangements, adequate fire water storage and functional pumping systems. Fire extinguishers must be ISI-certified and regularly maintained, and smoke management systems are required to remain operational at all times.
Life safety provisions have also been reinforced, with instructions to install illuminated emergency exit signage, prominently display evacuation plans, maintain smoke-free stairwells and provide emergency lighting supported by battery backup. Occupancy limits must be strictly enforced, particularly in public assembly spaces such as auditoriums, entertainment venues and bars.
Additionally, the DFES has directed every establishment to prepare a Fire and Emergency Response Plan, ensure staff are trained in emergency procedures and maintain unobstructed access for fire service vehicles. Quarterly fire and evacuation drills have been made compulsory, with night-time drills mandated for hotels, hostels and residential institutions. Records of training sessions and mock drills must be preserved for official inspection.
The department has reiterated that consistent compliance with fire and life safety measures is essential to prevent tragedies and safeguard lives and property across the State.
