Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation To Seal Unauthorized Scrap Godowns In Kudalwadi Following Fire IncidentÂ
Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation To Seal Unauthorized Scrap Godowns In Kudalwadi Following Fire Incident
Pimpri, December 14, 2024: In the aftermath of the massive fire at Kudalwadi, which brought attention to unauthorized godowns and establishments across areas like Tathawade, Chikhali, and Jadhavwadi, the municipal administration has taken decisive action. A survey of the region revealed 4,662 business establishments, many of which were operating illegally or without adequate fire safety measures. Notices have been issued to godown owners, and establishments ignoring prior warnings will be sealed starting Monday.
The fire that engulfed 35 godowns in a four-acre area in Kudalwadi required four days of firefighting efforts, with some areas still smoldering. This incident has reignited concerns over the approximately 150-acre area housing similar unauthorized establishments.
Survey Findings and Actions
A comprehensive survey of 4,662 establishments in the Kudalwadi-Tathawade region was conducted. The fire department issued notices to 4,512 establishments for failing to comply with fire safety regulations, while only 244 businesses received no-objection certificates after implementing necessary measures. Despite repeated warnings, 4,268 establishments have yet to take corrective actions and now face water and electricity supply disconnection, followed by sealing.
Alarming Rise in Fire Incidents
Kudalwadi’s scrap godowns, storing flammable materials like plastic, rubber, fiber, and chemicals, are a persistent fire hazard. Fire incidents in the area have increased significantly, with 30 cases in 2020, 41 in 2021, 44 in 2022, 58 in 2023, and 44 as of October 2024.
Political and Administrative Responses
Deputy Commissioner of the Fire Department, Manoj Lonkar, confirmed that action against establishments that ignored three previous notices will begin on Monday. Meanwhile, Sharad Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party MP Dr. Amol Kolhe called for impartial investigations into the fire incident, urging the establishment of a dedicated fire station in Kudalwadi and regular safety audits.
This significant decision aims to prevent further fire disasters and ensure compliance with safety norms in the region.
