RAWALPINDI: The Punjab government has directed civic authorities in Rawalpindi to ensure the installation of emergency external staircases in all three storey buildings within fifteen days as part of a comprehensive fire safety crackdown. The instructions have been issued to the Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation, district administration and municipal committees operating across the tehsils of the garrison city.

In addition, the Water and Sanitation Agency has been ordered to install water hydrants in major commercial hubs including Raja Bazaar and Commercial Market. Officials said the move is essential as fire tenders often struggle to access narrow and congested streets during emergencies, delaying firefighting operations and increasing risks to life and property.

The provincial government has also instructed all government run hospitals in Rawalpindi to immediately ensure complete fire safety arrangements. Hospital administrations have been asked to install standard firefighting equipment and emergency response systems without delay to protect patients, staff and visitors.

District Emergency Officer Sibghatullah said new standard operating procedures have been issued to all departments and civic bodies to prevent incidents similar to the Karachi Gul Plaza fire tragedy. He stated that no building plan would be approved in the future unless emergency exits are clearly incorporated, adding that joint efforts are being enforced to prevent fires in plazas, bazaars, hospitals and public spaces.

Meanwhile, a high level meeting on rescue and emergency preparedness was held under the chairmanship of Rawalpindi Commissioner Amir Khattak. Officials from Rescue 1122, Civil Defence and other relevant departments attended the meeting, which focused on devising a coordinated divisional strategy to handle emergencies, natural disasters and accidents.

The commissioner directed departments to initiate regular rescue drills in government and private buildings, educational institutions and markets. He also ordered the preparation of detailed action plans covering manpower, machinery, response time and risk zones. Emphasis was placed on effective communication systems, updated data on sensitive locations and the active deployment of Rescue 1122 motorbikes to ensure rapid access in congested areas. A follow up meeting will review progress and readiness.