ISLAMABAD: In compliance with the directions of the Federal Government, conveyed through the Secretary, Ministry of Interior, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) has intensified enforcement of fire and life safety standards across Islamabad, making it clear that the protection of precious human lives remains its foremost priority.
In a significant enforcement action, the CDA has sealed Shaheed-e-Millat Secretariat, State Life Insurance Corporation Building, Trade Development Authority of Pakistan Building, Beverly Centre Plaza and Crown Plaza Hotel Building in Blue Area, Islamabad, following their failure to comply with fire and life safety observations issued earlier issued by the CDA’s Fire & Emergency Services Directorate in accordance with prescribed safety requirements and applicable laws.
In addition, the CDA has imposed a penalty of Rs. 500,000 each on Capital Hospital, Polyclinic Hospital and Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) for failure to adhere to prescribed fire and life safety regulations in letter and spirit.
The enforcement action reflects the CDA’s firm resolve that no compromise will be made on the safety and protection of human lives. Buildings, institutions and organizations are required to ensure that adequate fire prevention, firefighting, emergency evacuation and life safety arrangements are in place and properly maintained.
All formations concerned of CDA have been directed to adopt a zero tolerance approach towards serious fire safety violations and ensure strict compliance with prescribed safety standards. CDA emphasized that no building, institution or organization can be allowed to compromise the lives and safety of employees, visitors or the general public by neglecting essential fire prevention and emergency response requirements.
The CDA’s Fire & Emergency Services Directorate is conducting comprehensive inspections of buildings across Islamabad to identify deficiencies related to fire prevention systems, firefighting equipment, emergency exits, evacuation routes, alarm systems, accessibility for emergency response and other essential life safety measures.
The concerned building administrations have already been issued observations and directed to rectify identified deficiencies within the prescribed timeframe. However, failure to comply with mandatory safety requirements has resulted in enforcement action, including sealing and financial penalties, as applicable under the rules.
The CDA has made it clear that the ongoing fire safety campaign is not merely an inspection exercise but a comprehensive enforcement initiative aimed at preventing avoidable loss of life and property. Buildings found in violation of mandatory fire and life safety requirements will continue to face action in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
The relevant departments of CDA to maintain continuous monitoring of fire safety compliance and ensure that inspection observations are followed by effective corrective measures. There is need to establish a strong culture of prevention, preparedness and institutional responsibility throughout Islamabad.
The CDA has urged all government departments, public sector organizations, hospitals, commercial establishments, private building owners and managements to immediately review their fire safety arrangements and ensure complete compliance with prescribed standards.
The Chairman CDA reiterated that in line with the policy of the Federal Government, fire safety is a collective responsibility. Timely installation and regular maintenance of firefighting equipment, unobstructed emergency exits, proper evacuation arrangements, functional fire alarms and adherence to prescribed safety protocols can save precious lives during an emergency.
The ongoing enforcement drive forms part of CDA’s broader efforts to transform Islamabad into a safe, secure, modern and well-managed capital, where public safety, quality infrastructure, effective regulation and good governance remain central to urban management.
The CDA has reiterated that every reasonable opportunity will be provided to building administrations to rectify identified deficiencies in accordance with the prescribed procedures. However, continued non-compliance with essential fire and life safety requirements will not be tolerated.
“Protection of human lives is the first and foremost responsibility. No compromise will be made on fire and life safety.”
