CDA Report Exposes Major Fire Safety Gaps in 6,500 Islamabad Buildings

A Capital Development Authority (CDA) report from January has resurfaced, shedding light on major fire safety deficiencies across Islamabad, following the fatal nursery fire at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS). The CDA survey, which examined 6,500 buildings in the capital city and 300 government buildings, revealed that a majority of the surveyed structures lacked approved fire safety plans, completion certificates, or fire safety certificates. The findings were discussed in a CDA meeting on January 28.

In response to the survey, the civic body mandated building owners and occupants to furnish the necessary fire safety certificates within 15 days. Failure to comply could result in fines and other legal consequences under the CDA Ordinance and the Islamabad Capital Territory Building Control Regulations. The meeting also determined that buildings would undergo annual fire safety inspections, and owners would need to submit certificates adhering to Pakistan Engineering Council codes. Regular fire safety drills were to be conducted to enhance emergency preparedness.

The renewed focus on the CDA report was prompted by the tragic nursery fire at PIMS on Wednesday, which resulted in the deaths of 14 newborns. The CDA emphasized that the measures were intended to prevent fires and ensure that evacuation routes and safety systems were functional during emergencies.