Punjab Government Tightens Fire Safety Regulations
The Punjab government has issued new fire safety rules for commercial buildings across the province. The decision followed the deadly Gul Plaza fire tragedy in Karachi. Authorities said the incident highlighted serious safety gaps in commercial structures.
The new instructions aim to improve fire prevention and emergency response. The Punjab Chief Secretary chaired an online meeting to announce the measures. Commissioners and deputy commissioners from across the province attended the session.
During the meeting, the chief secretary made firefighting equipment mandatory in all commercial buildings. He directed local governments to ensure strict enforcement of standard operating procedures. Officials were told to carry out inspections without delay.
The government said public safety remains the top priority. It added that negligence by building owners would no longer be tolerated. Authorities were instructed to act against violations under existing laws.
Emergency Exits and Evacuation Measures Made Mandatory
The chief secretary also issued specific orders for multi-storey buildings. He said all three-storey commercial buildings must install steel staircases. These staircases are meant to support emergency evacuation during fires.
The evacuation staircase must be properly connected from the second floor. Officials said this will ensure a clear and continuous escape route. The aim is to prevent people from getting trapped during emergencies.
The chief secretary clarified that no no-objection certificate is required for installing steel staircases. This step was taken to remove delays and encourage quick compliance. Building owners were urged to act immediately.
According to an official statement, every floor of a commercial building must have at least one fire extinguisher. Owners and building management must also ensure the equipment is functional. Regular maintenance was described as essential.
The statement added that full compliance must be ensured within 15 days. Authorities warned that inspections would begin after the deadline. Violators may face fines or legal action.
Rawalpindi Authority Begins Fire Safety Audits
Following the provincial directives, the Rawalpindi Development Authority has taken immediate action. The RDA issued a detailed fire safety checklist for commercial and high-rise buildings. The checklist is meant to guide owners on compliance.
RDA Director General Kanza Murtaza announced fire safety audits in Rawalpindi. She said the authority has already informed building owners about the inspections. The audits will focus on preparedness for emergency situations.
Murtaza said the checklist covers key safety requirements. These include fire prevention equipment, electrical systems, and emergency exits. Officials will also inspect evacuation routes for accessibility.
She added that inspection teams have prepared a standard evaluation form. The form will help ensure consistency during audits. It will also help identify gaps in safety arrangements.
The RDA director general warned of strict legal action for non-compliance. Building owners found violating safety rules may face penalties. Authorities said enforcement will remain firm.
The Punjab government said these steps are necessary to prevent future tragedies. Officials urged cooperation from building owners and management. They stressed that fire safety is a shared responsibility.
