September inspections uncover major fire safety gaps, with 150 hospitals reportedly lacking sufficient safety equipment as authorities step up enforcement across the capital.
ISLAMABAD: Authorities in Islamabad sealed 92 premises during September 2026 as part of an intensified campaign to enforce fire prevention and life safety standards across commercial, residential, healthcare and government buildings.
The enforcement drive was carried out by Capital Emergency Services under the Capital Development Authority (CDA), following directions from Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi and CDA Chairman Sohail Ashraf.
The inspections were conducted under the Islamabad Fire Prevention and Life Safety Regulations, with the aim of identifying safety risks and ensuring that buildings meet the required standards for fire protection and emergency response.
Inspections cover hospitals and commercial buildings
During September, authorities conducted fire and life safety audits across different categories of premises. These included 115 hospital audits, 29 government facility audits, six commercial property audits and four residential building audits.
The inspections resulted in enforcement actions against properties found to be non-compliant with fire safety requirements. The authorities also continued action against buildings that failed to meet the applicable standards.
The enforcement wing issued 288 challans during the month. A total of Rs2.4 million was recovered in nine cases, including Rs1.7 million from five commercial cases and Rs700,000 from four hospital cases.
In addition, fees from 102 commercial fire and life safety plans generated Rs510,000. Authorities also issued 41 specific challans to hospitals.
Hospital fire safety remains a major concern
Healthcare facilities were among the main areas of focus during the inspections. September enforcement data indicated that 150 hospitals did not have sufficient fire and safety equipment, highlighting the need for stronger compliance with mandatory safety requirements.
The findings raise concerns about the preparedness of healthcare facilities to respond to fires and other emergencies. Proper firefighting equipment, safe evacuation arrangements and compliance with building safety rules are essential to protect patients, staff and visitors.
An advisory was also issued to Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), while the authorities continued to review safety conditions in healthcare buildings.
Notices issued as enforcement continues
During September, authorities issued 99 final notices, show-cause notices and advisories to commercial properties. Fifteen commercial cases remained pending for further action and completion of their audit reports.
The enforcement team is continuing to follow up on outstanding cases, issue notices and challans where required, and recover applicable dues.
Authorities have also maintained a process for de-sealing premises that meet the required safety conditions. Buildings are expected to demonstrate compliance before restrictions are lifted.
The ongoing campaign places greater responsibility on building owners, management teams and relevant institutions to ensure that fire safety equipment and emergency arrangements are in place and maintained.
The authorities are expected to continue inspections and enforcement action to reduce fire risks and improve safety in buildings throughout Islamabad.
