Finally,venues get clearance certificates

Getting a problem off its back,the Delhi government has finally given clearance certificates to all Commonwealth venues,though with some minor allowances.

The Fire department has given clearances to IG Stadium,Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium and Siri Fort Stadium overlooking some small defects the first two structures are old and the staircase not wide enough to be cleared under the present rules. Since there is hardly anything that can be done at this stage,the Fire department has given the clearances overlooking the narrower staircase.

The difference between the sanctioned and the actual is insignificant. The only reason we have given them exemptions is to bring the flaws to their notice, said Chief Fire Officer R C Sharma. At Siri Fort,the department has sealed the basement which has no arrangement for a water curtain. These exemptions were sanctioned by Lieutenant-General Tejender Khanna before the certificates were handed out.

At IG Stadiums cycling velodrome,which has a dome design,it was impossible to have the mandatory overhead tank. But the department gave its clearance as there was no scope of tanks in the design.

The government,meanwhile,assures that no exemptions have been given to Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium which will see the most spectators. We have made sure that JLN Stadium has all required fire safety norms in place, said Chief Secretary Rakesh Mehta.

Meanwhile,Commonwealth Games Federation CEO Mike Hooper does not appear all that happy. They apparently call them occupancy certificates. I am sure they are not going to lie to me. I assume thats what is required, he said. Hooper added: It is just a language thing. Do you call them building certificates or occupancy certificates? I do not know the clarification,because they have only come over the weekend.

Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram