Could the Bengal Government Introduce SOPs for Rooftop Eateries Following Recent Hotel Fire?
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Synopsis
In light of the recent tragic fire at Rituraj Hotel in Kolkata, the Bengal government is contemplating the implementation of SOPs for rooftop eateries. This initiative aims to enhance fire safety and prevent future legal complications. Stay tuned as we explore the potential changes that could impact the dining landscape in West Bengal.
Key Takeaways
- SOPs may soon be introduced for rooftop eateries in West Bengal.
- The tragic fire at Rituraj Hotel sparked the need for improved safety regulations.
- KMC is taking immediate action to close and demolish unsafe rooftop establishments.
- Collaboration between various departments is crucial for effective enforcement.
- Future construction on rooftops will be tightly regulated.
Kolkata, May 8 (NationPress) The state government is contemplating the issuance of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for all rooftop eateries throughout West Bengal to prevent future legal issues stemming from fire incidents.
This decision arises in the wake of a tragic fire at Rituraj Hotel in central Kolkata on the night of April 29, which resulted in the loss of 15 lives.
In response to the fire, the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) promptly issued a notice mandating the immediate closure of all rooftop eateries in the Greater Kolkata area under its jurisdiction.
In certain instances, joint teams from the corporation and Kolkata Police intervened to demolish specific establishments.
However, the eatery owners appealed to the Calcutta High Court, leading the court to grant an interim stay on the demolition until further directives.
“The corporation mandated the immediate closure of all rooftop restaurants, considering that in the event of a significant fire in a building lacking functional emergency exits, the roof would serve as a last refuge for inhabitants.
“Nevertheless, the absence of SOPs across the state has complicated the corporation’s efforts to close or demolish these rooftop eateries,” stated a senior government official.
He further mentioned that the corporation is emphasizing the need for enhanced collaboration among various departments, including municipalities, municipal corporations, West Bengal fire services, and police, to address the issue of illegal constructions on rooftops and basements.
The KMC has already declared that no new constructions will be permitted on the roofs and basements of any buildings under its jurisdiction moving forward, and these areas must be designated as common spaces in future building plans.
Significant shortcomings in fire safety management, along with inadequate evacuation and ventilation facilities, were identified in Rituraj Hotel, where the fire incident occurred on April 29.
Point of View
I recognize the critical need for robust safety regulations following recent fire incidents. The proposed SOPs for rooftop eateries not only serve to protect patrons but also ensure that owners operate within a safe framework. This approach demonstrates a commitment to public safety while balancing the interests of local businesses. It is essential that these regulations are developed with input from all stakeholders to foster a safe dining environment.
NationPress
23/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the Bengal government to consider SOPs for rooftop eateries?
The consideration for SOPs was prompted by the tragic fire incident at Rituraj Hotel, which resulted in multiple fatalities and highlighted significant fire safety management lapses.
What actions have been taken by KMC regarding rooftop eateries?
The Kolkata Municipal Corporation has ordered the immediate closure of all rooftop eateries within its jurisdiction and has initiated demolition actions against certain establishments.
How are the rooftop eateries responding to the closure orders?
Many eatery owners have challenged the closure orders in the Calcutta High Court, resulting in an interim stay on demolitions until further court decisions.
