Delhi Home Minister Ashish Sood has ordered a comprehensive city-wide fire safety audit following a tragic fire in the Palam area. The mandate aims to identify and eliminate safety gaps across all establishments, including those situated in residential zones. This decision comes after a fire incident on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, resulted in nine deaths, including three children. The government aims to establish a uniform security standard to prevent future accidents.
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Key features of the new fire safety mandate
- Third-party experts will conduct the mapping and auditing to ensure transparency and technical accuracy.
- The audit covers electrical safety, fire alarms, sprinklers, and emergency exits.
- Establishments in residential areas are now part of the mandatory safety checks to address blind spots.
- Certified professionals will strictly follow national fire safety standards during inspections.
- The process focuses on evacuation readiness and addressing critical safety gaps.
Compensation and investigation updates for Palam fire
The Delhi government has announced financial assistance for the victims of the Palam fire incident. A Magisterial Inquiry is also underway to investigate the cause of the fire and the legality of storing commercial goods in a residential building. Home Minister Ashish Sood stated that the government is working to stop accidents before they start by improving safety frameworks across the city.
| Category | Compensation Amount |
|---|---|
| Families of deceased adults | ₹10 Lakh |
| Families of deceased children | ₹5 Lakh |
| Serious injuries | ₹2 Lakh |
