Kolkata|25th October 25:
The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has issued a stern warning to rooftop restaurants across the city — any establishment found violating fire safety or building regulations could face demolition.
Mayor Firhad Hakim announced that the civic body’s building department has been instructed to conduct surprise inspections of rooftop eateries. “If inspectors find violations, we will not hesitate to demolish the structures,” the Mayor said.
The move comes after the city granted permission to reopen rooftop restaurants on the condition that they comply with fire safety norms, submit indemnity bonds, and regularize their structures within a fixed period.
According to KMC sources, there are 83 rooftop restaurants in Kolkata. Of these, only 21 applied for permission before the deadline. The approved establishments were allowed to reopen after September 15, with a three-month grace period to fulfill all safety and licensing requirements.
Officials revealed that some restaurants resumed operations without submitting the mandatory indemnity bond, while others failed to meet the fire safety standards outlined by the Fire and Emergency Services Department.
The KMC’s new directive emphasizes the following key safety measures:
At least 50% of the rooftop area must remain open and unobstructed, serving as an emergency refuge in case of fire.
Any roof coverings or sheds must be made of non-flammable materials.
The Mayor reiterated that non-compliance will lead to strict action, including cancellation of licenses and demolition of unauthorized structures. Civic engineers and fire officials are expected to begin random inspections across several upscale localities known for rooftop dining, such as Park Street, Southern Avenue & Salt Lake.
This crackdown follows repeated concerns over fire safety in congested urban establishments, especially after several fire incidents in recent years that exposed lapses in compliance.
