Rajkot: A Devastating Fire Claims 27 Lives in Gaming Zone Lacking Fire Safety License
A catastrophic fire at a gaming zone in Rajkot has resulted in the deaths of 27 people, including nine children, exposing severe safety shortcomings at the facility. The gaming zone, named TRP, was operating without a mandatory no-objection certificate (NOC) for fire safety and had only one exit, officials revealed.
The blaze, which broke out amid a weekend promotion with discounted tickets priced at ₹99, is suspected to have been caused by a short circuit. However, the precise cause will be determined after a thorough investigation. The fire was so intense that smoke could be seen from several kilometers away, and the victims' bodies were charred beyond recognition. DNA samples from the deceased and their relatives are being collected for identification.
Safety and Compliance Issues
Sources indicate that TRP gaming zone lacked the necessary licenses to operate, and there was no record of a fire clearance NOC from the Rajkot Municipal Corporation. This regulatory oversight has drawn significant criticism in the wake of the tragedy.
Rajkot Mayor Nayna Pedhadiya, who was on-site to oversee rescue efforts, confirmed the absence of a fire NOC. "We will investigate how such a large gaming zone was functioning without a fire NOC and ensure that no political interference occurs in this matter," she stated.
The facility’s design, with just one emergency exit, exacerbated the disaster. Panic ensued when a temporary structure at the entrance collapsed, trapping people inside. Rajkot fire officer Ilesh Kher reported the challenges faced during the firefighting operations due to the structure's collapse and high wind velocity.
Legal and Administrative Response
The owner and manager of the TRP game zone have been detained for questioning. Following the incident, the state Director General of Police instructed all police commissioners and superintendents to inspect gaming zones across Gujarat and close those without fire safety permits. This directive aims to prevent future tragedies by ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations.
Public and Official Reaction
The public and officials alike are calling for stringent action against those responsible for the negligence. The Rajkot tragedy underscores the dire consequences of ignoring safety regulations and the need for stringent enforcement to protect lives.
The devastating fire at the Rajkot gaming zone is a stark reminder of the critical importance of adhering to safety standards. As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to take robust measures to prevent such incidents in the future, ensuring that public safety is prioritized in all recreational facilities.