BackLAW
Vivek Vihar fire: MCD probe finds building lacked completion certificate, possibly deviated from plan
The MCD’s preliminary investigation into the Vivek Vihar fire suggests the building may have deviated from sanctioned plans and safety norms and did not have a completion certificate. Nine people, including a toddler, died in the four-storey building on Sunday. Officials noted possible violations related to floor space, open balconies, and escape routes.
Why It Matters
The findings, if confirmed, point to potential non-compliance with building regulations and safety norms, raising questions about accountability and building oversight and their impact on rescue operations.
Timeline
2 Events
MCD preliminary findings on the Vivek Vihar fire
May 5, 2026
The MCD’s preliminary investigation found that the residential building may have deviated from sanctioned building plans and safety norms and did not have a completion certificate. Officials said the original plan may have sanctioned four units on a plot of about 532 square metres, and that more than six units may have been constructed on a roughly 670 square metre plot. They also noted that grills along the rear side of the building appeared to have blocked escape routes, and that open balconies required by the Unified Building Bye-Laws and provisions of the Master Plan for Delhi 2021/2026 must remain open on at least one side for ventilation and emergency access, which was not the case here. The ward had moved from Shahdara South Zone to Shahdara North Zone after integration, and the investigation is ongoing.
Fire at Vivek Vihar four-storey building
May 3, 2026
Nine people, including a toddler, died in the fire at the four-storey Vivek Vihar building on Sunday, May 3, 2026.