In Kolkata, the local government is very serious about keeping people safe from fires. The Kolkata Municipal Corporation, also called KMC, is now checking rooftop restaurants across the city. These places are built on top of buildings and are very popular among people. Many people like to eat there because the view is nice and the air is fresh. But these rooftop restaurants must follow rules to make sure people stay safe. Recently, KMC found that many of these restaurants do not have fire safety documents. Because of this, the government has started strict checks and action against these places.
A big reason for this action is a terrible fire that happened in April 2025. The fire broke out in a hotel called Rituraj in the Burrabazar area of Kolkata. Fourteen people lost their lives in that fire. Many others were badly hurt. This made the government understand that some places are not safe and must be improved. After this sad event, officials became more serious. They wanted to make sure that all public places follow fire safety rules. This is why the KMC is now taking a closer look at all rooftop restaurants in the city.
The KMC checked the records and found that 83 rooftop restaurants in Kolkata do not have proper documents. These restaurants were running their business without the needed permissions and fire safety plans. Some did not even have basic fire extinguishers or smoke alarms. To protect people, KMC issued closure notices to these 83 rooftop places. A closure notice means the place must stop business until everything is fixed. The owners are told to bring documents and follow fire rules. If they do not do this, their restaurants will remain closed permanently by the KMC.
After sending notices, the KMC started holding official meetings called hearings. In these hearings, the owners of rooftop restaurants are asked to bring their papers. The government checks if the restaurants were built in the right way and if they have fire safety plans. Three famous rooftop restaurants—Drunken Teddy, Romaania, and Scrapyard—attended the first round of hearings. But they could not show the correct documents. They were not able to prove that they followed the fire safety rules. The KMC then asked them to come back again with proper papers or face action. This shows how serious the situation has become.
Some restaurant owners were not happy with the KMC’s orders. They said they were running their businesses legally. They believed that the KMC’s actions were too harsh. So, they went to court. The case reached the Calcutta High Court, which is one of the highest courts in West Bengal. The court looked into the matter and gave temporary protection to some rooftop restaurants. This means that these restaurants will not be shut down right away. The court said more hearings will take place. But it also said that fire safety rules must be followed by all rooftop businesses.
The government of West Bengal also became involved in the issue. Some people suggested that the government should create a Standard Operating Procedure, also called SOP. This SOP would help give clear steps to start and run a rooftop restaurant safely. But the government refused the idea. It said that the main goal now is to make sure all places are safe from fire. They believe that adding new rules is not the solution right now. Instead, they want all existing rules to be followed very strictly so that people’s lives are not at risk anymore.
Along with hearings and court actions, KMC is also making people aware about fire safety. They want restaurant owners to understand why this is important. Fire can start at any time due to small reasons like a gas leak or short circuit. If the place is not ready to fight a fire, many people can get hurt. This is why the KMC is asking all rooftop restaurants to buy safety tools. These tools include fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and sprinkler systems. These things can help stop fires quickly and can even save lives during an emergency.
Many rooftop restaurants do not have fire safety equipment. This makes them dangerous, especially during busy times when many people are present. For example, during dinner hours or parties, these places are full of guests. If a fire breaks out at such a time and there is no fire extinguisher or alarm, the results can be deadly. KMC officials say that rooftop restaurants must install automatic fire suppression systems. These are machines that can detect a fire and stop it before it spreads. If owners buy and install these machines, they can keep their customers and staff much safer.
One of the best machines for rooftop fire safety is called the Ceasefire Automated Modular Fire Suppression System. This system works automatically. It uses special powder to stop the fire from spreading. It is easy to install in kitchens, storerooms, or any other risky area. It does not need someone to operate it. It turns on by itself when it senses heat or smoke. Another important tool is a smoke detector. One brand is NOTOFIRE, which sells a set of 10 smoke detectors. These small devices make a loud sound when there is smoke, helping people run to safety quickly.
Fire extinguishers are also very important in every rooftop restaurant. One common type is the Eco Fire ABC Powder Type Fire Extinguisher. This extinguisher is useful for all types of fires, like fires caused by wood, gas, or electricity. It is simple to use. Every worker in a restaurant should know how to use it. These tools do not cost much but can make a big difference in saving lives. The KMC says every rooftop restaurant must have these items. If a place does not follow this rule, they will not be allowed to operate anymore in the city.
People in Kolkata are watching this issue very closely. Many love going to rooftop restaurants, especially during evenings and weekends. They enjoy the food, music, and open-air experience. But now, many people are also worried about safety. They want to enjoy their time without fear. Some have stopped visiting these restaurants until they know the place is safe. This shows that fire safety is not only a legal issue but also a matter of public trust. Restaurant owners who take fire safety seriously are gaining more respect from customers and are seen as more responsible in the city.
The fire at Hotel Rituraj has changed many things. Before this, most people did not think about fire safety while eating out. But now, they ask questions. They want to know if the restaurant has an exit plan, smoke detectors, or fire extinguishers. They check if there are signs showing what to do during a fire. This change in behavior is important. It shows that people are becoming more aware. It also pushes restaurant owners to improve their places. No one wants to visit a place where their life could be in danger because the owners did not follow safety rules.
Kolkata has many old buildings. Some of these are not strong enough to have extra construction on rooftops. But some owners still build restaurants on them without asking the KMC. These illegal constructions are risky. They can fall down or catch fire easily. That is why KMC is also checking if the rooftop structures are built in a safe way. They are checking if the buildings can hold extra weight. If not, the owners must take down the restaurant. This will help stop accidents and make the city a safer place for everyone who lives or visits here.
The KMC is also asking customers to help. They say that if anyone sees a rooftop restaurant that looks unsafe, they should report it. This can be done by calling a hotline or using the KMC’s online complaint system. People can send photos and details. This way, the KMC can take faster action. It is a team effort between the government, restaurant owners, and the public. Everyone must do their part to make sure rooftop places are fun and safe. The KMC also plans to do surprise checks so that owners do not delay in following the rules.
Firefighters in Kolkata are also being trained to deal with rooftop fires. Fighting a fire on the top floor is different from fighting it on the ground. It takes more time and planning. The fire trucks need special ladders and hoses to reach high places. The fire department is buying new tools and vehicles for this. They are also teaching restaurant workers what to do during a fire. Regular training and fire drills are now required. If workers know what to do, they can help save lives. These new steps are very important for city safety and public protection.
In the future, all new rooftop restaurants must get a safety approval before they open. This rule will help stop illegal construction and make sure the place is ready to face emergencies. KMC is planning to make a public list of safe rooftop restaurants. This list will help people choose where to go. Restaurants that follow all rules will be given a special sticker or certificate. This sticker will be shown at the entrance. It will mean that the place is checked and safe. Such steps will encourage more restaurant owners to do the right thing.
The situation in Kolkata is a good lesson for other cities too. Many cities in India have rooftop restaurants. If they are not checked, the same kind of accident can happen there. That is why governments in other places should also look at fire safety now. Rooftop restaurants are a good idea, but only if they are safe. Safety must always come first. It is better to spend money on fire safety tools than to lose lives and face court cases later. The actions taken by the KMC can be a model for other municipal bodies across the country.