ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority has revealed that the majority of buildings in the federal capital do not possess mandatory fire safety certificates, raising serious concerns about public safety and regulatory compliance across Islamabad.
The disclosure followed a comprehensive fire safety and hazard control survey conducted after the deadly Gul Plaza fire in Karachi prompted nationwide concern. According to an official CDA handout, a total of 6,500 buildings were inspected in Islamabad, including around 300 government owned facilities.
The survey found that most buildings had neither obtained approval for their fire safety plans nor secured completion and fire safety certificates from the relevant authorities. Officials noted that the absence of these clearances reflects weak compliance with safety regulations and exposes occupants to significant risk in case of fire or other emergencies.
The findings were shared during a high level meeting at CDA headquarters chaired by CDA Chairman Mohammad Ali Randhawa. The meeting was attended by senior officials, including members administration and planning, the deputy commissioner Islamabad and representatives of concerned departments.
The CDA stated that the survey was carried out on the directives of Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who ordered immediate inspection of all buildings in Islamabad. Following the instructions, departments such as Capital Emergency Services and the Building and Housing Control Wing were mobilised to complete the exercise without delay.
Building owners and occupants have now been directed to submit valid fire safety and hazard control certificates to the CDA Building and Housing Control Wing within fifteen days. Failure to comply will invite legal action under the CDA Ordinance and the Islamabad Capital Territory Building Control Regulations 2020 as amended in 2023, including fines and enforcement measures. Authorities warned that in case of an accident caused by non compliance, responsibility will rest with the building owners and management.
The meeting also decided that annual inspections of all buildings will be mandatory, with regular submission of fire safety certificates in line with Pakistan Engineering Council codes. In addition, routine fire safety drills will be conducted to strengthen emergency preparedness and safeguard public lives in the capital.
