Punjab government gives two weeks to implement fire safety in public buildings after Gul Plaza incident

The Punjab government issued a two-week deadline to owners and managers of plazas, schools, hospitals, and other public buildings to implement fire safety SOPs. The decision, on Thursday, came after the tragic incident at Gul Plaza in Karachi.

Azma Bokhari, the Provincial Minister for Information and Culture of Punjab, said in a press conference that a grading system for buildings has been initiated, under which structurally sound buildings will be classified as “A-grade,” while others will be graded based on their safety conditions. 

Furthermore, she added that zero tolerance will be practiced for negligence, and buildings must legally display clear entry and exit points for emergency use.

The government is upgrading Rescue 1122 with drones and advanced firefighting equipment, and will provide WASA with a geo-tagged list of hydrants for quicker access during a crisis. 

Moreover, the government approved an emergency plan to install 1,142 fire hydrants at markets, plazas, and business centers across Punjab by 1st March.

Housing Department officials said Rescue 1122 will be responsible for installing and maintaining the hydrants to improve fire response in emergencies.

The fire safety measures have been taken to enhance public safety across the province