UP issues orders to follow safety norms to avoid Meerut-like tragedy

Lucknow, Apr 11 (UNI) Stung by the criticism of the Meerut district administration in tackling yesterday's trade fair inferno, the Uttar Pradesh government today ordered implementation of proper safety norms during cultural festivals and exhibitions attended by people in large numbers.

Principal Secretary (Home) S K Aggarwal today said orders have been issued to all district magistrates and police chiefs, divisional commissioners, DG (Fire), ADG (Law and Order) and the Director General of Police (DGP) asking them to ensure that proper safety norms were adhered to in the future during such programmes to avoid Meerut-like tragedy.

The tragedy left at least 60 people dead and over 100 injured.

The state government has, however, confirmed the death of only 30 people. ''We cannot rule out more deaths,'' Mr Aggarwal said.

''Suitable and prompt action should be taken under UP Fire Prevention and Safety Act, 2005 and other relevant Acts, including the Indian Penal Code, against the violators,'' the note read. The Home department official said it has been noticed that at times exhibitors or organisers do not follow the norms. ''They should be made to follow the fire safety methods,'' the note added.

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