Building's fire-fighting system not working is a serious issue, we'll take action: Sitaram Kunte

Did the building concerned follow fire-fighting norms?
The fire-fighting system within the high-rise did not work. Be it wet riser, sprinklers or water tanks, all were found to be non-operational when the fire broke. This is a serious issue. We will take whatever legal action possible in this matter as per provisions in Maharashtra Fire Prevention and Life Safety, Disaster Management and Criminal Negligence Acts. Owners of such high-rises must ensure fire prevention system in their buildings work properly.

The building was issued an occupancy certificate in 2008, yet the fire-fighting system was found to be not operational. Did the manager or owners of the building carry out a fire audit as per norms?
Occupancy certificate is issued only after fire safety inspections by the brigade. The question in this particular case is that the fire-fighting system did not work. We will check if the owners had carried out an audit, which is expected to be done twice a year. There are licensed agencies which do such inspections. As far as inspection on part of BMC is concerned, we are trying to strengthen our team by increasing manpower in line with the latest Maharashtra Fire Prevention and Life Safety Act.

There are questions being raised about the quality of fire safety uniforms and boots given to firefighters, who have complained of their legs burning.
We will take stock of the claims. During Friday's rescue operation, the firemen happened to be stuck between two floors where the temperature had shot up severely. So, that can be a reason. But as I said, we will have to dig into the details first once the rescue operation is over.

There have been long-standing concerns about fire safety in high-rises with glass facades. BMC is supposed to come out with guidelines for such buildings. What is the progress in the matter?
Yes, similar incidents have happened earlier. Safety in buildings with glass facades is a challenge before us. The building proposals department is working on it. The draft guidelines are ready, we have not finalised them yet. Keeping in mind today's episode, we will have to buck up in finalising the policy.

There's also this issue of web of cables. The coast guard engaged in rescue with choppers complained of its work getting affecting due to cables. Are you mulling over any plan to tackle the issue?
Yes, there are concerns about the web of cables. Not only the Indian Coast Guard but the railways too has raised concerns as the cables run cross-sectional to railways' high-tension overhead wires. Railways fear this can lead to some untoward incident. We will have to think about this issue. As of now, there is no policy in place to address it.

Is there any plan to purchase helicopters for fire-fighting or rescue operations?
On Friday, we were happy to see the Indian Coast Guard and navy helping us promptly in rescue work. We will take their help if need be. There is no such plan for consideration before us to buy a chopper for BMC as of now.