Kozhikode: As many as 192 shops in the Sweet Meat (SM) Street area were served closure notices for their failure to adhere to safety norms following an inspection on Monday by a joint team of officials attached to Revenue, KSEB, and Electrical Inspectorate departments and the Kozhikode Corporation.
The team carried out inspections at 604 shops. Previously, around 1,250 shops had been issued directives to take steps to rectify faults, if any, within seven days. “The inspections will continue on Tuesday as well,” District Collector U.V. Jose told The Hindu .
The inspection followed detection of rampant fire safety violations in shops after the massive fire that broke out on SM Street in February.
The Collector said the fire accident turned out to be an opportunity for the district administration to shake up the system. “The rules are transparent. We implement them after convincing all traders. We have given them clear instructions on precautionary steps. That 402 shop owners have decided to set things right is a great achievement,” Mr. Jose added.
During inspections, officials focus on proper wiring and availability of fire extinguishers at shops. Henceforth, encroachment on pavements, dumping goods hazardously, and cooking inside shops will not be allowed, the Collector said. “We also need to examine shops on a regular basis to ascertain whether they stick to the rules. Traders are cooperating with officials. A technical team will hold a meeting at the collectorate on Tuesday on the beautification of SM Street,” he added.
Meanwhile, Kerala Vyapari Vyavasayi Ekopana Samiti president T. Nasirudeen welcomed the inspections. “Now, they are at least doing their job. Traders are not against rules and regulations. We are against abuse of power. Officials are also expected to be in their uniforms when they visit shops for inspection. Traders honestly want the beautification programme on SM Street to take off but not at the expense of the community,” Mr. Nasirudeen said.
