Bhubaneswar, October 16: Odisha’s month-long ‘Surakshit Odisha, Viksit Odisha’ campaign has concluded, with the Fire Services Department identifying fire safety deficiencies and documentation irregularities at 3,404 establishments across the state.

Launched on September 15, the campaign covered hospitals, educational institutions, hotels, commercial establishments and industrial areas to assess fire safety arrangements and identify potential risks.

During the drive, notices were issued to 3,404 establishments for deficiencies in fire safety systems and irregularities in documentation. Around 200 establishments were also served separate notices for deviations from their approved building plans.

Digital Initiatives to Strengthen Fire Safety

As part of its efforts to improve transparency and public access to services, the Fire Services Department is introducing digital measures to help people verify fire safety certificates issued to hotels, hospitals and large buildings through a mobile application.

The department is also undertaking three-dimensional (3D) mapping of buildings to improve emergency response and rescue operations. The mapping will include entry and exit routes, water sources and the locations of firefighting equipment, helping emergency personnel navigate buildings more effectively during critical situations.

24-Hour Control Room Operational in Bhubaneswar

To address public grievances and application-related issues, a 24-hour control room has been made operational at the command centre in Bhubaneswar.

Citizens and business owners facing difficulties with fire safety certificates, No Objection Certificates (NOCs) and other related applications can also contact the department through WhatsApp.

Fire Safety Key to Odisha’s 2036 Vision

Umashankar Dash, Inspector General of Fire Services, said the campaign had concluded after identifying safety-related deficiencies and irregularities across the state.

He highlighted the department’s growing responsibility in supporting Odisha’s development goals, particularly as healthcare infrastructure, urbanisation and transportation networks are expected to expand in the coming years.

The findings underline the importance of maintaining functional fire safety systems, complying with building regulations and ensuring proper documentation across public and private establishments.

With digital certificate verification, 3D building mapping and round-the-clock public assistance, the department aims to strengthen fire safety compliance and improve emergency preparedness across Odisha.