Emphasising the critical importance of this initiative, Municipal Commissioner Shekhar Singh said, “Fire safety is a non-negotiable aspect of urban living. Safety of our citizens is our topmost priority. We can’t afford to overlook lapses in fire prevention measures. Text messages are nothing but a reminder to ensure that all establishments adhere to necessary safety standards.”

This move follows an extensive fire prevention survey being conducted by women from authorised self-help groups, appointed by Mahila Arthik Vikas Mahamandal (MAVIM), Pune. The survey aims at assessing the area’s fire safety infrastructure of commercial buildings.

PCMC Additional Commissioner Pradeep Jambhale-Patil, speaking on the non-compliance of fire safety information, said, “The sheer number of establishments with inadequate fire safety information is a cause for concern. We are committed to creating a safer environment for everyone, and this reminder is a necessary step to rectify the existing gaps in fire safety measures.”

The text messages also address the shortcomings identified during the survey, including insufficient information on fire safety measures, missing licences and incomplete documentation. Establishments have been urged to take immediate action to rectify these deficiencies to ensure the safety of both occupants and property, the administration said in a press release.

“PCMC calls for full cooperation from all commercial establishment owners and occupiers in Pimpri Chinchwad. Failure to comply may lead to further regulatory actions,” the administration said.