The district administration in Nalanda has decided to launch a fire safety inspection campaign covering all coaching institutes, private libraries, study centres and other commercial establishments that receive a large number of students every day. Institutions that have not obtained a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Fire Department or are found lacking the required fire safety measures will face strict action. If necessary, such institutions will also be sealed.
The administration reviewed safety arrangements following recent fire incidents at educational institutions and commercial buildings in different parts of the country. It has decided that no institution in the district will be allowed to ignore prescribed safety standards. Officials said the safety of students is the highest priority and that negligence in this matter will not be tolerated.
Joint teams comprising the Fire Department, urban local bodies and other concerned departments will inspect coaching institutes and private libraries. During the inspections, officials will verify the availability and operational condition of fire extinguishers, the presence of emergency exits, adequate ventilation and whether electrical wiring complies with prescribed safety standards. The teams will also assess the arrangements in place for the safe evacuation of students in the event of a fire.
According to officials, merely installing fire extinguishers will not be considered sufficient. Institution operators must also ensure that staff members know how to use the equipment, that the equipment has been serviced periodically, and that a clear emergency response plan is in place. Action will also be taken in cases where fire extinguishers are installed but have expired or are no longer fit for use.
A large number of coaching institutes and private libraries in the district are attended by hundreds of students every day, with many operating from multi-storey buildings. The administration said that inadequate safety arrangements in such buildings could lead to serious accidents during emergencies. All operators have therefore been directed to obtain a Fire NOC in time and comply with prescribed safety standards.
The administration stated that the inspection drive will not be a mere formality. Institutions found with serious deficiencies will first be issued notices. If the required improvements are not made within the stipulated period, the institutions concerned will face sealing, fines and other legal action. Officials said no leniency will be shown towards those who ignore safety regulations.
Fire Department officials have urged institution operators to voluntarily conduct safety audits of their buildings. Where additional firefighting equipment, emergency exits, fire alarm systems or other safety measures are required, they should be installed without delay. This will help ensure the safety of students and staff while also preventing legal action.
The administration said that many students spend several hours each day in coaching institutes and private libraries, making it the responsibility of operators to provide a safe environment. It stated that protecting human life is the foremost priority in any emergency and that compliance with safety standards is mandatory for every institution.
The district administration has also appealed to parents and students to choose institutions that have adequate fire safety arrangements. If any institution is found to have serious safety deficiencies, the matter may be reported to the administration or the Fire Department. The administration said complaints received from citizens will also be investigated promptly.
The campaign will be carried out across the district in phases over the coming days. Further action will be decided on the basis of inspection reports. The administration said the objective is not only to take action but also to develop a culture of safety across all educational institutions in the district. Officials reiterated that there will be no compromise on student safety and that strict action will be taken against coaching institutes and private libraries operating without a Fire NOC or in violation of prescribed safety standards.
