The Telangana Fire, Disaster Response, Emergency and Civil Defence Department has warned of strict legal and administrative action against building owners and managers found locking or obstructing emergency exits.
During recent inspections in Hyderabad, officials found that several buildings violated fire safety norms despite repeated advisories. The department stressed that blocked exits endanger lives and breach safety regulations.
To tighten enforcement, the State government is mooting an amendment to the Fire Services Act 1999. The changes will make it mandatory for building managements to file self-declarations of compliance, allow authorities to declare unsafe structures, seal non-compliant premises and impose penalties.
After the recent drive, one of the violators had rectified the lapses in his building and made emergency exit doors functional.
Citizens have been urged to remain alert, check exit conditions in public places, and report violations to the nearest fire station or through the department helpline at 9949991101. Emergency services can be reached by dialling 101.
Published – September 20, 2025 09:07 pm IST
