Archive · 10 Sep 2026
Kolkata malls face fire audits to test emergency preparedness
Fire officials visited shopping malls in Kolkata to see whether they were ready for a fire.
They checked places such as kitchens, food courts, basements and emergency exits.
They also tested smoke detectors and sprinklers.
Some tests used artificial smoke and controlled flames.
Officials said most of the equipment worked properly, although a few problems were found.
They warned that malls with inadequate safety systems could face strong action.
One mall said its emergency signs can glow during a power cut.
More malls in Kolkata and other parts of the state will be inspected soon.
Fire and emergency services teams audited at least six shopping malls across Kolkata on Wednesday.
Inspectors checked food courts, restaurant kitchens, basements, staircases, emergency exits and firefighting equipment.
Artificial smoke was used to test smoke detectors, while flames were used to test sprinkler heads.
Officials said most inspected equipment was operational, though some deficiencies could lead to strong action.
Inspections are scheduled for 29 malls across the state between September 9 and 18, with 23 more planned soon.
- Who
- The state fire and emergency services department, led by director general Anuj Sharma, conducted the audits at shopping malls.
- What
- Officials tested fire-fighting systems, smoke detectors, sprinklers, emergency exits, staircases and staff preparedness.
- When
- Audits were conducted on Wednesday; inspections at 29 malls are scheduled between September 9 and 18, with additional inspections planned afterward.
- Where
- At least six shopping malls across Kolkata were visited, with further inspections planned in Kolkata, Howrah, Burdwan and Darjeeling.
- Why
- The inspections were intended to determine whether malls had adequate fire protection and emergency preparedness.
- Audits conducted
- At least six shopping malls in Kolkata were visited on Wednesday.
- Statewide inspection list
- Twenty-nine malls were identified for inspections between September 9 and 18.
- Additional inspections
- Inspections at 23 more malls were lined up for the following days.
- Systems tested
- Smoke detectors, sprinkler heads, firefighting equipment, emergency exits and staircases were checked.
- Testing methods
- Teams used artificial smoke for detectors and exposed sprinkler heads to flame.
- Official warning
- Anuj Sharma said strong action would be taken if firefighting mechanisms were inadequate.
- Reported findings
- Fire department sources said most equipment was operational, apart from a few exceptions.