Gujarat Govt Introduces Model Rules for and Gaming Zones

The Gujarat Govt formulated “model rules” to regulate amusement rides and gaming zones. This initiative seeks to prevent incidents like the tragic fire in Rajkot on May 25.

Licensing and Approvals from Gujarat Govt:

In addition to obtaining standard licenses and approvals, such as fire NOCs and building use permissions from police and civic authorities, game zone owners must now secure approval from Ride Safety and Inspection committees.

Advocate General Kamal Trivedi informed the high court that police commissioners will appoint these committees in cities, while district collectors will establish them at the district level.

Court Hearing and Government Response:

A division bench, comprising Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal and Justice Pranav Trivedi, reviewed the state government’s affidavit and scheduled the next hearing for August 23. This bench had initiated a suo motu PIL following the May 25 incident, which resulted in 27 fatalities, including four children.

During a June hearing, the court directed the state government to clarify whether rules were framed under section 33 of the Gujarat Police Act. In response, Trivedi confirmed that the state home department had developed the “Gujarat Amusement Rides and Gaming Zone Activities Safety Rules, 2024,” incorporating public suggestions.

Detailed Provisions:

The model rules have been disseminated to all police commissioners and district magistrates for notification. These comprehensive rules encompass definitions of games and rides, installation procedures, licensing provisions, inspection protocols, prior approval requirements, supervision, renewal processes, and license suspension aspects.

Licensing and Inspection Process:

For license renewal, a certified inspector will review the facility according to Annexure 1 and issue a certificate that will be verified by the respective safety and inspection committees. New gaming zones or rides must undergo inspection and receive committee approval before installation.

Implementation Timeline

The chief justice urged the state government to ensure that police commissioners and collectors notify these rules within two weeks and form the committees within a subsequent week. Each committee will include technical experts not below Class-2 officers from the state government, board, or corporation.

This structured approach aims to enhance safety standards and prevent future tragedies in amusement and gaming zones across Gujarat.

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