Pune: In a stringent crackdown on fire safety violations, the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation has sealed 26 commercial properties in Chikhali, Kudalwadi, and Talawade areas after they failed to comply with fire safety regulations, despite being issued notices twice.

Authorities have disconnected the water and electricity supply to these properties.

The action follows a series of incidents in the city where industrial and commercial properties have caught fire, resulting in loss of life and property.

Investigations revealed that many of these properties lacked essential fire prevention systems and stored hazardous materials, often with individuals residing on the premises.

To address this, the Fire Department conducted a comprehensive survey of industrial and commercial properties across the city.

Following the survey, owners of properties deemed hazardous were issued a first notice to install fire safety systems, ensure clear access routes, and safely store hazardous materials.

Some property owners complied after the initial notice, but a second notice was issued to those who did not take any action.

Even after two notices, several property owners failed to implement the required fire safety measures, prompting the municipal authorities to seal the properties and cut off their utilities.

Under the city's regulations, it is mandatory for property owners and occupants to implement fire prevention measures, keep them operational, and provide a certificate from a licensed agency to the Fire Department.

Deputy Commissioner Manoj Lonkar of the PCMC Fire Department emphasized that the sealing of properties will continue until compliance is achieved, as safety cannot be compromised.