The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) recently carried out inspections on 299 units in response to a fatal explosion at an illegal firecracker manufacturing site in Ramol. This incident resulted in the death of 10 individuals, including children, and injuries to five others. Following the tragedy, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed, leading to a broader crackdown on unauthorized firecracker activities.
The Fire and Emergency Services Department, along with the Estate and Town Development Department’s zonal offices, have been jointly conducting inspections across the city since the explosion. During the two-day enforcement drive on July 19 and 20, a total of 299 units were inspected, with 147 units examined on Saturday and 152 on Sunday. Officials reported that immediate actions were taken post the explosion, including seizing illegally stored firecrackers and intensifying enforcement against hazardous activities.
As part of the initiative, joint teams surveyed buildings suspected of unauthorized firecracker activities. During Sunday’s inspections, several suspicious units were found locked and abandoned by their owners, indicating possible absconding. Despite many establishments being closed during the checks, the AMC emphasized that inspections would persist, and legal measures would be taken for any violations or deficiencies in fire safety.
Special inspections conducted on July 19 targeted various hazardous units, resulting in 30 notices issued for violations of fire safety norms and other non-compliance. The subsequent day saw inspections in different zones, with actions taken such as ordering units to halt operations, sealing units, and issuing notices for documentation submission within specific timelines. The AMC reiterated its commitment to continuing the inspection and enforcement campaign to ensure strict adherence to fire safety regulations and enhance public safety.
