OG Navratri at Sarsana AC Dome in Surat Shut Over Fire Safety Violations

Surat: The Fire Department has ordered the closure of the air-conditioned dome hosting the OG Navratri event in Sarsana, Surat, after a surprise inspection found exposed electrical wiring, unauthorised alterations to entrance and emergency exit points, and the use of LPG cylinders in the food court.

Chief Fire Officer Basant Parikh said the department issued an immediate closure notice after detecting multiple fire safety violations that could endanger thousands of participants and visitors. The local police have also been informed in writing for further action against the organisers.

During the inspection, fire officials found exposed electrical wiring at three to four locations inside the dome, where synthetic materials had been extensively used. Parikh said the wiring posed a serious fire hazard, as a short circuit could trigger a blaze.

The inspection also revealed that the organisers had allegedly altered the entrance and emergency exits from those specified in the layout plan submitted to obtain the Fire No Objection Certificate (NOC). Officials said the changes could endanger participants in the event of a fire or stampede.

LPG cylinders found despite previous notices

Fire officials also found six to seven LPG cylinders being used in the food court inside the enclosed dome. The department had previously issued two notices over safety violations and seized around 16 gas cylinders. However, the latest inspection found that LPG cylinders were still being used.

Officials said the presence of gas cylinders in a crowded, enclosed venue posed a significant risk to public safety.

The Fire Department has ordered the dome’s immediate closure and submitted a written report to the local police station for further legal action against the organisers over the alleged violations. DeshGujarat