Hyderabad fire services find emergency exits locked in malls

HYDERABAD: Emergency exits, which are mandatory in public places such as shopping malls and cinema halls, were found locked in several establishments during surprise inspections by the Telangana Fire Services Department earlier this month.

Officials said emergency doors are critical for safe evacuation during incidents such as fire accidents. However, many managements had locked them, citing reasons like theft risk and unauthorised entry due to lack of staff presence.

Inspections reveal violations in several establishments

When questioned, some managers told inspection teams, “We kept them locked to prevent theft,” while others said, “Unfamiliar people may misuse them as there is no staff to monitor.”

The department has issued notices to such establishments and decided to act strictly against violators. Officials are also preparing to enforce provisions of the Fire Services Act, 1999, which is set to come into effect after pending amendments.

The department appealed to the public to demand that managements keep emergency exits open. Citizens can also lodge complaints on its helpline 9949991101 if they find exits locked.