BMC seals two illegal restaurants

Mumbai: Continuing its drive against encroachments and illegal constructions in eateries, the Brihan-mumbai Municipal Corpo-ration (BMC) on Saturday sealed two restaurants, Rincy Vilas Farsan Mart in Dharavi and Kazuza Restaurant and Hookah Parlour in Khar West, where large-scale irregularities were found. According to civic officials, both the restaurants have been sealed under section 8(1) of the Maharashtra Fire Prevention and Life Safety Measures Act 2006.

On Saturday, the BMC inspected 414 restaurants and establishments across the city. During the drive, illegal constructions in 120 establishments were razed with immediate effect. In addition to this, 214 restaurants have been issued inspection report and have been asked to carry out necessary amendments at the earliest. Furthermore, 123 gas cylinders were seized during the drive.

According to civic officials, 52 municipal teams have been carrying out the inspection in all the 24 wards across the city. Each team consists of one official each from fire brigade, health department and building and factory department. “During the drive, a fire brigade official carries out inspection of fire safety measurements in the establishment, whereas health official examines the aspects related to his department. Official from the building and factory department scrutinise construction related matters, including entrance and open spaces,” said a civic official.

“The action has been initiated against restaurants, basements and other places, which are in imminent danger of catching fire. We have directed the chief fire officer to seal the establishment immediately if he feels that the place is dangerous for fire accidents,” said municipal commissioner Ajoy Mehta.