Do Most Buildings in Islamabad Lack Fire Safety Certifications?
Synopsis
A recent survey reveals alarming findings about fire safety certifications in Islamabad. Following a devastating fire incident in Karachi, the Capital Development Authority is compelled to act. Discover the implications of these findings and what authorities plan to do to ensure safety in the capital.
Key Takeaways
Majority of buildings in Islamabad lack fire safety certifications.
Survey initiated by CDA after the Gul Plaza tragedy.
Building owners must submit fire safety certificates within 15 days.
Legal action will be taken against non-compliant owners.
Survey covered 6,500 buildings , including government structures.
Islamabad, Feb 2 (NationPress) A significant number of structures in Pakistan's capital, Islamabad, lack fire safety certifications, as reported by local media referencing the Capital Development Authority (CDA).
In the wake of the catastrophic fire incident at Gul Plaza mall in Karachi, the CDA initiated a comprehensive survey focusing on fire safety and hazard management across Islamabad. This assessment encompassed 6,500 buildings, as highlighted by Dawn, a prominent daily.
The survey revealed that a vast majority of these buildings had not secured approval for their fire safety protocols, and relevant safety certifications were either not obtained or issued. An inspection covering 300 government buildings was also carried out, as detailed in the CDA's statement shared during a meeting led by CDA chairman Ali Randhawa.
Federal Minister for Interior Mohsin Naqvi took note of the situation and instructed the CDA to expedite a comprehensive examination of all buildings in Islamabad concerning fire safety and hazard management. In compliance with this directive, all pertinent departments, including Capital Emergency Services and the Building and Housing Control Wing, were tasked with completing the survey promptly.
During the meeting, it was resolved that building owners and tenants would be mandated to provide their Fire Safety and Hazard Control Certificates to the appropriate offices of CDA’s Building and Housing Control Wing within 15 days. Non-compliance would result in legal measures being initiated as per the CDA Ordinance and the Islamabad Capital Territory Building Control Regulations 2020 (Amended 2023).
The tragic fire incident at Gul Plaza resulted in the loss of 79 lives. A committee, led by Karachi Commissioner Syed Hasan Naqvi and Additional Inspector General Javed Alam Odho, has compiled a final report regarding the incident, which is set to be submitted to Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah. This report will encompass details concerning the fire's cause, firefighting and rescue efforts, along with testimonies from victims, witnesses, and emergency responders. The fire ignited in a flower shop on the ground floor at approximately 10:15 PM (local time) on January 17 and swiftly spread through air-conditioning ducts, leading to most fatalities occurring on the mezzanine level.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the urgent need for rigorous fire safety measures in Islamabad. The lack of proper certifications poses a significant risk to public safety. The government must prioritize the inspection and regulation of buildings to prevent tragedies similar to the Gul Plaza incident.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do many buildings in Islamabad lack fire safety certifications?
The majority of buildings have not obtained the necessary approvals for their fire safety plans, leading to a significant lack of certifications.
What actions is the CDA taking regarding fire safety?
The CDA is conducting a survey of all buildings in Islamabad to assess fire safety compliance and will require owners to submit certifications within 15 days.
What prompted the CDA to conduct this survey?
The survey was initiated following the tragic fire incident at Gul Plaza mall in Karachi, which highlighted the pressing need for fire safety measures.
What are the consequences for non-compliance with fire safety regulations?
Building owners who fail to submit the required fire safety certifications will face legal action under the CDA Ordinance and related regulations.
How many buildings were inspected in Islamabad?
A total of 6,500 buildings were surveyed, including 300 government structures.
