Noida : The Confederation of NCR Resident Welfare Associations (CONRWA), Noida Chapter, has urged authorities to conduct an extensive inspection and safety audit of all hotels, guest houses and paying guest (PG) accommodations operating in Noida. The demand comes in the wake of the tragic fire incident reported at a hotel in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar on June 3, which reportedly claimed 21 lives.
In a letter addressed to the Chief Fire Officer of Gautam Budh Nagar and the Police Commissioner, CONRWA expressed concern over the incident and called for immediate preventive measures to avoid similar tragedies in Noida.
Demand for verification of approved building plans and occupancy limits
CONRWA has requested authorities to verify whether hotels, OYO establishments and PG accommodations are operating according to approved building plans and sanctioned occupancy capacities.
The association highlighted concerns that some establishments may be running more rooms than officially approved, potentially compromising safety standards. It has sought a city-wide inspection to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations and other statutory requirements.
Review of hotels and PGs operating in narrow lanes
The residents’ body has also called for a review of hotels, guest houses and PGs functioning in congested and narrow lanes.
According to CONRWA, such locations pose serious challenges during emergencies as fire tenders and ambulances may face difficulties reaching the site in time. The association has recommended stricter safety norms before granting approvals for new establishments in such areas and a reassessment of existing facilities.
Inspection of fire safety measures and valid NOCs
A key demand raised in the letter is the verification of fire safety infrastructure and the validity of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) issued by the fire department. CONRWA has urged authorities to check whether establishments possessing NOCs are regularly conducting fire safety training sessions and mock drills for their staff. It has further sought strict action against those operating without the required approvals.
Concern over use of flammable interior materials
The association has expressed concern over the widespread use of PVC paneling and wooden partitions in hotels, guest houses and PG accommodations.
It noted that PVC panels are highly combustible and can accelerate the spread of fire, while wooden partitions can quickly catch fire during an emergency. CONRWA has requested the issuance of regulatory guidelines and inspections regarding the use of such materials.
Call for regular electrical safety audits
The letter also stresses the need for regular maintenance and technical inspections of electrical installations, including air conditioners, wiring systems, generators and other electronic equipment.
CONRWA pointed out that electrical loads increase significantly during the summer months, raising the risk of short circuits and fires. It also recommended ensuring that electricity meters are installed at appropriate locations within the premises to facilitate firefighting and rescue operations.
Demand for periodic surprise inspections
To strengthen compliance, CONRWA has called for regular and surprise inspections of hotels, guest houses and PG establishments across Noida.
The association believes that routine monitoring will improve awareness among operators and staff regarding safety standards while also creating accountability through the possibility of punitive action against violators.
Authorities urged to act in public interest
The letter has been signed by Dr P.S. Jain, President of CONRWA, B.B. Valecha, Convener of the Noida Chapter and Rajeev Garg, General Secretary of the Noida Chapter. Copies of the representation have also been sent to the Police Commissioner of Gautam Budh Nagar and the Chief Executive Officer of the Noida Authority.
CONRWA stated that timely inspections and effective enforcement of safety regulations can help prevent future accidents and safeguard lives, urging authorities to take immediate action in the interest of public safety.
