The Punjab government has mandated a comprehensive fire safety audit of all markets, schools, and buildings, including high-rise structures, setting a strict two-week deadline for compliance with fire safety regulations across the province.
The directive issued today by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif also includes an order to conduct fire drills throughout the province to enhance emergency preparedness.
In a significant move to ensure implementation, the administration has been directed to secure the full enforcement of the Building Safety Act. A para-force has been given special powers for the strict implementation of these safety measures.
According to the new regulations, all buildings must have clear entry and exit routes. Additionally, it is now mandatory for all safety signs to be accurate and prominently displayed for the public.
The initiative involves multiple agencies, with WASA tasked with installing fire hydrants at designated locations. These locations will be identified and geotagged by Rescue 1122, which is undertaking a project to geotag all key sites across the province. A two-week period has also been set for the installation of external fire hydrants on all buildings.
Officials confirmed that the Punjab government will consult with stakeholders of all industrial establishments to enhance both human and structural safety standards.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif said, “Wisdom and technology, along with courage, are essential to combat building fires. There is no place in Punjab for those who play with people’s lives.”
These decisions were announced after a high-level meeting chaired by the Chief Minister, which reviewed progress on fire audits, the use of thermal drones, geotagging of fire hydrants, and the implementation of the Building Codes 2022 to protect the lives and property of the public.