The Uttarakhand government has directed all government and private hospitals, including medical colleges, to strengthen their fire safety systems and conduct mandatory emergency drills and safety audits. The decision follows Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and Health Minister Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat’s instructions during a crucial review meeting held at the Secretariat, chaired by Health and Medical Education Secretary Dr. R. Rajesh Kumar.
The state will soon launch a statewide Fire Safety Audit Campaign, aimed at ensuring that all healthcare institutions operate according to prescribed safety norms. Dr. Kumar emphasized that no negligence will be tolerated, and strict administrative and legal action will be taken against those found violating safety standards.
During the meeting, attended by Director of Medical Education Dr. Ajay Arya, Doon Medical College Principal Dr. Geeta Jain, CMS Dr. R.S. Bisht, Deputy Secretary Jaswinder Kaur, and representatives from U.P.R.L., several key directives were issued to strengthen fire preparedness.
Doon Medical College Under Special Review
Dr. Kumar directed the agency responsible for fire safety works to expedite the issuance of fire No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for hospital buildings. He also instructed the Fire Department to take necessary action on priority. The health secretary further ordered a thorough inspection and demonstration of sprinklers, motors, and other fire safety devices to ensure their functionality in emergencies.
The Director of Medical Education was instructed to conduct monthly mock fire drills in all medical colleges across the state. The principal of Doon Medical College was told to hold monthly review meetings with the implementing agency. The agency informed the meeting that the OT Building’s fire NOC will be transferred by October 30, 2025, and the CSSD Department’s NOC by November 30, 2025.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami’s Statement
“The government is committed to strengthening fire safety mechanisms in all government and private hospitals across Uttarakhand. The safety of patients and hospital staff is our top priority. Every hospital must comply with safety standards—no negligence will be tolerated,” said Chief Minister Dhami.
Health Secretary Dr. R. Rajesh Kumar’s Statement
“Under the Chief Minister’s guidance, we are intensifying inspections and fire drill campaigns across the state. All hospitals have been instructed to ensure strong fire systems, emergency drills, and regular safety audits. Negligence will invite strict action. Our goal is to make every hospital in Uttarakhand fully safe and emergency-ready,” said Dr. Kumar.
Statewide Fire Safety Campaign: Key Directives
-
Mandatory inspection of fire alarms, sprinklers, and emergency systems in all hospitals.
-
Monthly emergency drills and staff training programs.
-
Periodic safety audits and record maintenance.
-
Strict administrative and legal action for non-compliance.
This state-level fire safety initiative marks a decisive step by the government toward improving hospital preparedness and safeguarding lives. It sends a clear message to hospital administrations that safety compliance is non-negotiable and timely reporting will be strictly enforced.
