India, Dec. 22 -- In a significant crackdown ahead of Christmas and New Year celebrations, the Delhi Fire Service (DFS) carried out inspections at 97 clubs, restaurants, hotels and other such establishments across the city and shut nine such venues for fire safety lapses despite having valid certificates and issued notices to 31 others, officials said.

DFS said the inspections were carried out from December 10 to 19. "Several teams conducted checks and inspections at popular clubs, bars, hotels, restaurants and banquet halls that had fire safety certificates (FSC). These establishments were set to host large gatherings for the upcoming celebrations," an official said.

"Despite having valid certificates, 31 establishments had major short...