The investigation into the devastating fire at Rajkot's TRP Gaming Zone continues, uncovering layers of negligence. Authorities linked to the venue, bolstered by their influence, seemingly turned a blind eye to procedural necessities, allowing the gaming zone to thrive despite incomplete safety protocols. Images surfacing on social media expose the presence of higher-ups at the TRP Gaming Zone on March 22, 2022.
A photo from 2022 goes viral, revealing officers at the game zone
A photo has emerged showing officials present at Rajkot's TRP Gaming Zone. Posted on Instagram by the gaming zone itself, it raises questions about their dismissal of crucial permissions. Prompt officiating at the time might have prevented the tragedy.
Source: aajtak
Game Zone was inaugurated in 2021
The gaming zone, operational since 2021, caught fire, resulting in 28 fatalities. It came to light that the venue had not secured a mandatory fire NOC. Controversy sparked when it was revealed that the police had granted and renewed a license in 2023 without consulting the fire department.
Read More: Rajkot: How a Normal Fire Escalated in 5 Minutes, Leaving 5 Family Members Missing
Gaming zone lacked essential fire safety equipment
The Rajkot Police Commissioner stated the license was granted based on R&B Department's recommendations. The gaming zone had submitted a fire safety bill but never installed the required equipment nor applied for a fire NOC.
How was the gaming zone operational without a NOC?
The incident has triggered an ongoing investigation to pinpoint the responsible parties and oversights. Revelations suggest that despite the absence of NOC and permissions, how such a significant gaming zone was operating. Following the fire incident at 5:30 PM on Saturday, 27 bodies were recovered from the site, with DNA matching still in process.
Source: aajtak
Six accused face charges
Complaints have been filed against six individuals. Yuvraj Singh Solanki and Nitin Jain have been arrested, while the others remain at large. The crime branch is handling the investigation, with promises of an expedited charge sheet. Assistance is also being provided by an FSL team from Gandhinagar.
Children claim swift evacuation by staff
Children playing in the gaming zone at the time of the accident recounted being abruptly instructed to leave due to the fire. Some managed to escape, but others were trapped, with only one exit available from the first floor.
Excessive storage of diesel and petrol fueled the fire
2000 liters of diesel for generators and 1500 liters of petrol for go-kart racing were stored at the TRP Game Zone, contributing to the rapid spread of the fire. The structure was completely consumed. The game zone only had a 6-to-7-foot-wide passage for entry and exit. A promotional offer of Rs. 99 per entry led to the heavy footfall at the time of the disaster.
