919 Kolkata Hotels, Guest Houses Face Temporary Closure Over Fire Safety Lapses

Kolkata: The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has issued temporary closure notices to 919 hotels and guest houses after inspections found widespread non-compliance with mandatory fire safety norms. The action follows a major fire at Hotel Shikha Inn last month that claimed nine lives and comes ahead of the Durga Puja season. Authorities inspected 960 hotels and guest houses up to September 7, with only 41 establishments found fully compliant with required safety measures. KMC Commissioner Smita Pandey said basic fire-safety deficiencies were found in most of the inspected properties.The civic body has indicated that establishments can seek reopening after rectifying deficiencies and completing the required compliance process. However, properties found to have been illegally converted from residential premises may not be allowed to obtain licences again.The Fire and Emergency Services Department has also begun safety audits of major shopping centres and commercial establishments. Available next action: Create a downloadable PDF file here in this chat containing the finalized decisions and immediate actions above