Delhi tightens fire safety rules for buildings after recent tragedies

Delhi's Home Department has notified the Fire Service (Amendment) Rules, 2026, introducing stricter fire prevention and safety requirements across the city's building stock. The amended regulations establish minimum standards linked to building height and occupancy classification, with compliance measures to be governed by the Building Bye-Laws.

Under the new framework, buildings must incorporate fire and smoke barriers, maintain unobstructed access routes, and install emergency power systems. Facility owners are also required to establish dedicated fire control rooms to coordinate emergency response. The amendment represents a significant strengthening of the capital's fire safety protocols after multiple incidents claimed lives in recent months.

The Malviya Nagar hotel fire in June, which resulted in 23 deaths predominantly among foreign nationals, prompted urgent review of existing fire safety standards across Delhi. Investigators found that buildings lacking comprehensive fire prevention measures outlined in current Building Bye-Laws remain vulnerable to rapid spread of flames and smoke.

The amended rules grant the Delhi Fire Service director authority to mandate additional safety measures for buildings not covered under existing bye-law provisions. This discretionary power aims to address safety gaps in older structures and unique facility types that may fall outside standard classifications. Building owners and occupiers now face potential enforcement action for non-compliance with the new standards.