From Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Sep 4: High-rise buildings such as malls, multiplexes, auditoriums, and apartments that do not adhere to safety norms will be stopped supply of power and water, said Home Minister K J George on Wednesday.

Speaking to reporters after reviewing the fire audit of high-rise buildings across cities in the State with Karnataka State Fire and Emergency Services Department Director General of Police M N Reddy, the minister said the State Government was forced to cut electricity and water supplies to all "unsafe" buildings.

Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (Bescom) and Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerages Board (BWSSB) would be asked to disconnect electricity and water supplies to high-rise buildings in the State Capital that found violated safety norms, he said.

In other cities, he said the respective electricity supply companies and Karnataka Water Supply and Sewerage Board would be asked to stop power and water supplies to buildings that are flouting safety rules.

The Karnataka State Fire and Emergency Services Department issues "no objection certificate" (NoC) to operationalise buildings that stand 15 metres and above or buildings with ground plus four or more floors.

There was no periodical inspection of these buildings. During the audit, which commenced a few months ago, the department commenced the process of identifying such buildings that violated safety norms, he said.

The High Court of Karnataka had directed the State government to carry out fire audits of all high-rise buildings following the Carlton Towers tragedy in February, 2010, George said.