Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Aug 12: In a shocking revelation, Health minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has disclosed that out of a staggering 8,728 registered hospitals in Karnataka state, only 329 are compliant with fire safety norms — raising serious questions about patient and staff safety in both public and private healthcare facilities.

Speaking in response to a question raised by MLC Dr Dhananjaya Sarji, the minister confirmed that only 14 of the 2,878 government hospitals, and 315 of the 5,850 private hospitals in Karnataka have implemented fire safety measures as mandated under the National Building Code (NBC).

Representational image

"As per NBC regulations, all hospitals — regardless of ownership — must adhere to uniform fire safety standards. Unfortunately, the majority have completely disregarded these norms,” said minister Rao in the Council.

The issue came under the spotlight following three fire accidents in hospitals across the state last year. According to the minister, these incidents prompted a review meeting and a subsequent audit of fire safety compliance across healthcare institutions.

The findings, however, were deeply alarming. "When we collected data on fire safety preparedness, we found that only 14 government hospitals have proper systems in place,” the minister stated. “The remaining 2,864 government hospitals are in clear violation of mandatory safety regulations. This is a deeply concerning situation that we must address immediately.”

The lack of basic fire safety infrastructure in such a critical sector has raised eyebrows, especially given the vulnerable population served by hospitals.

Officials estimate that it would cost around Rs 550 crore to fully equip all government and private hospitals with fire safety systems. Minister Rao assured that the state will implement the necessary upgrades in a phased manner, with approvals and funds being released gradually.

Until now, fire safety was reportedly a low priority for hospital administrations, but last year’s incidents appear to have served as a wake-up call.

Health experts and activists are now calling for urgent enforcement and accountability. “Lives are at risk. This is not just an administrative lapse — it’s a public safety emergency,” said a senior public health expert who did not wish to be named.

As the government gears up to take corrective measures, the public is being urged to demand transparency and safety compliance from hospitals, especially when choosing healthcare providers.