LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz set a 30-day deadline for commercial and high-rise buildings to install fire hydrants, warning that strict action would follow in case of non-compliance.
In the meeting, CM Maryam approved comprehensive measures aimed at enhancing fire safety across Punjab. She emphasized the importance of rigorous enforcement of safety protocols in commercial and multi-storey structures. As part of these measures, it was decided to install 1,157 water hydrants in nine divisions and to establish a new Fire Inspectorate within Rescue 1122.
The CM also approved the deployment of advanced high-expansion foam generators for fire suppression, along with the installation of smoke detectors and CCTV cameras in large buildings. She mandated the presence of first-aid kits and oxygen cylinders in major commercial sites. Additionally, specialized training programs will be introduced for markets dealing with chemicals, cardboard, fabric, and gas cylinders to strengthen emergency preparedness.
Every high-rise building must be fitted with water hydrants, and externally ventilated staircases were made compulsory to facilitate safe evacuation during emergencies. CM Maryam expressed her condolences over the Gul Plaza fire in Karachi, reaffirming Punjab’s solidarity with Sindh and the affected families. She also praised the response to a recent fire in Lahore’s 25-storey hotel, which was contained successfully due to proper SOPs and rapid action.
She directed authorities to strictly enforce safety standards during construction, ensure firefighting equipment remains operational, and regularly inspect and replace expired safety gear. The safety of electrical wiring and gas cylinders was emphasized, with orders to seal substandard cylinder manufacturing and sales companies.
Automatic sprinkler systems have been made mandatory in all buildings, and encroachments obstructing emergency exits in congested markets like Lahore’s Shah Alam Market are to be removed. The CM also called for monthly fire drills across districts to strengthen preparedness, stressing that safety measures should be effective and not superficial.
Rescue 1122’s capacity will be enhanced with additional equipment and training. CM Maryam also instructed that boilers and flammable materials must not be stored in building basements, citing the importance of worker safety and condemning negligence that leads to fatalities. She reiterated that neglecting fire safety and risking lives is unacceptable and must be addressed proactively.
