Nagpur: After the Goa nightclub tragedy, the debate over rooftop and club safety in Nagpur has intensified. In a recent media byte, Commissioner of Police Dr. Ravinder Kumar Singal – as reported by a local english daily – said that police will increase patrolling and take strict action against party venues violating safety norms.
But the fact remains:
The Police cannot act alone. They can only enforce the rules after concerned departments officially report violations.
CP Singal’s statement highlighted the need for fire extinguishers, clear exits, and adherence to emergency protocols. However, the operational responsibility for granting and verifying Fire NOCs does not lie with the police.
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09 dec 2025
Who actually holds the responsibility?
According to fire safety regulations, the duty to inspect open rooftops, bars, clubs, and party houses lies with the:
- NMC Fire & Emergency Services Department
- NMC Licensing & Town Planning Departments
These are the authorities required to issue Fire NOCs, verify compliance, and report violations to the police.
Fire Department’s side of the story
Fire officials admitted that several establishments are operating without valid Fire NOCs, and shockingly, not a single rooftop venue in Nagpur currently has an approved fire clearance.
Some officers, when questioned earlier by media about illegal rooftop operations, responded dismissively:
“Kya aapko nightlife nahi hona Nagpur mein?”
This casual attitude exposes a worrying lack of seriousness within the system.
Where the system breaks down
Even if police are ready to take action, they require written communication from Fire and Licensing Departments. Without official reports, the police cannot shut down venues or initiate cases.
This gap in coordination allows unsafe venues to operate unchecked, putting thousands at risk — especially during the festive season.
The unanswered question
As New Year approaches and party-goers flock to rooftops and clubs, the city faces a critical question:
If another Goa-like incident is to be prevented, who will finally step up—
the Police, the Fire Department, or the system that connects them?
