8 killed in Solapur fire: Factory residence likely illegal, no fire NOC, says MIDC officials

Khandare added that even though the rules at the time the factory was constructed were different, there is almost never permission given for the construction of residences in such an area.

Deputy Commissioner with Solapur City Police, Ajit Borhade said, “As the starting point of the probe, we have registered an accidental death report (ADR) into the fire incident in which eight lives were lost. The ADR has been registered at the concerned local police station and an officer has been assigned for its inquiry. As part of the inquiry, reports from the various government departments on the industrial safety norms will be sought. These will include a fire inspection report, electrical inspection report and a report from the MIDC officials. The inquiry into the ADR will consider these reports and statements recorded by the police officer. Based on the findings of the inquiry further course of action will be decided. If inquiry points to negligence on the part of any individuals, offence will be registered accordingly.”

Another officer from Solapur City police said, “Initial findings suggest that hardly any fire safety equipment was installed at the premises. The families of the owner and a factory staffer were living on the factory premises in complete contravention of the rules. This would also mean these families were doing their daily chores including cooking on the premises itself. We will also check if the factory had undergone any checks and inspections in the recent past and what were the findings of it.”

(With inputs from Sushant Kulkarni)