Argus News - Bhubaneswar Supermart Blaze Exposes Fire Safety Lapses

Bhubaneswar, Feb 25: The massive fire at Lingipur Supermart exposed serious lapses in fire safety compliance, with the building operating without a mandatory safety certificate, sources said on Wednesday. The blaze raged for nearly 21 hours, destroyed goods worth crores, and raised urgent concerns over regulatory oversight.

The inferno began late Monday night and continued until Tuesday evening, requiring the deployment of more than 40 fire tenders. Firefighters struggled to contain the flames as the building had only one entry and exit point, severely restricting access. Large stocks of inflammable materials, including plywood, rubber, and plastic, further intensified the blaze, rendering water sprays ineffective.

Walls cracked, roofs collapsed, and thick smoke continued to billow even after the fire was brought under control. Fire Services Director General Dr. Sudhanshu Sarangi said the structure’s design and lack of safety measures complicated the firefighting operation but praised the courage of personnel who prevented civilian casualties.

Investigations confirmed that the building had no fire safety certification, and questions remain over whether fire-fighting equipment was installed at all. The incident has sparked outrage, with calls for stricter enforcement of safety norms in commercial establishments across the state.

Also Read: Bhubaneswar Supermarket Blaze: Firefighters Struggle to Control Mall Fire After 18 Hours

Authorities have now tasked 11 third-party agencies with inspecting hotels, hospitals, and business complexes in Odisha to ensure compliance. The Fire Services Department has urged all establishments to immediately adopt fire safety measures and secure certification to prevent similar tragedies.

The Lingipur blaze has reignited debate over illegal constructions and lax enforcement in urban areas. While the Supermart’s losses run into crores, the larger concern remains public safety, with experts warning that such lapses could lead to catastrophic consequences in densely populated zones.