CUTTACK: The historic Bali Jatra fair is all set to go underway here from November 14 to 20 amid tight fire safety measures and security cover.In the wake of fire mishap at a private hospital in Bhubaneswar, the district administration has given more emphasis on fire safety measures for smooth conduct of the fair. During a high-level preparatory meeting, Collector Nirmal Chandra Mishra directed the officials of Central Electricity Supply Utility (CESU) to ensure no incident of short circuit due to defective electric supply system.
A special squad will be formed to inspect electric supply system, electric run joy riders and other equipment in the fair. Tampering and illegal electric connection will be checked and stringent action initiated against violators, Mishra said.
The Collector said a special corridor for easy fire exit and movement of ambulance and fire fighting vehicles in the fair besides multiple exit systems and adequate space between the rows of stalls for visitors will be allotted. The administration has also decided to come up with a WhatsApp number for visitors to share information about crime and other problems with the police and officials of Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC).
Similarly, at least 15 stalls will be allotted to transgenders to create awareness on different social issues.
Stress will be given on cleanliness drive and sanitation measures while vendors will be asked to set up dustbins in front of their stalls at their own cost. No permanent construction will be allowed on Bali Jatra ground in view of the direction of National Green Tribunal (NGT).
This apart, use of polythene bags will be banned and a fine of `500 will be imposed on violators, said Commissioner of Cuttack Municipal Corporation Gyana Das.