ISLAMABAD: In a stark revelation exposing deep lapses in fire safety across Pakistan’s Sindh province, authorities have uncovered that over 91% of inspected buildings lack basic fire protection measures. This alarming finding comes from a government committee’s probe triggered by the deadly blaze at Karachi’s Gul Plaza shopping complex, where 80 lives were lost, hundreds injured, and thousands faced financial ruin.
The Sindh government has swiftly moved to seal 889 high-risk structures identified during the inspection of 3,633 buildings. Chief Secretary Asif Haider Shah announced this during a high-level meeting on fire safety, emphasizing zero tolerance for violations. Medium and low-risk buildings have been given directives to rectify deficiencies immediately.
The Gul Plaza tragedy, which shocked the nation, prompted the formation of the investigative committee. Pakistani media reports detail how the fire exposed systemic failures in compliance with fire safety laws. Building owners and managers now face mounting pressure to upgrade their facilities or risk closure.
Echoing concerns in the capital, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) in Islamabad conducted a survey of 6,500 buildings, revealing most lack fire safety certifications. Even 300 government structures fell short. Home Minister Mohsin Naqvi has ordered urgent comprehensive audits, with building owners given a 15-day ultimatum to submit certificates or face legal action under strict regulations.
This dual crackdown underscores a national wake-up call. As Pakistan grapples with urban growth, enforcing fire safety isn’t just regulatory—it’s a matter of life and death. Authorities vow rigorous enforcement to prevent future catastrophes, urging public vigilance in reporting hazards.