CDA Seals Eight Islamabad Buildings Over Fire Safety Violations
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has sealed eight buildings in Islamabad after inspections found that they had not met required fire and life safety standards.
The action is part of an ongoing enforcement drive aimed at improving fire safety measures across the federal capital.
According to the CDA, the action followed directions from the federal government through the Secretary of the Ministry of Interior. The authority said previously identified fire safety concerns were not addressed within the given timeframe.
Eight Buildings Sealed
The buildings sealed by the CDA include:
- Shaheed-e-Millat Secretariat
- State Life Building
- Trade Development Authority of Pakistan Building
- Beverley Centre
- NIC Building
- Crown Plaza
- Khudadad Heights Plaza
- Envoy Continental Hotel
The authority said the properties were sealed because they had not complied with prescribed fire prevention and life safety requirements.
Three Hospitals Fined Rs. 500,000 Each
In addition to the sealing action, the CDA imposed a Rs. 500,000 fine each on three major healthcare facilities:
- Capital Hospital
- Polyclinic
- Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS)
CDA Chairman Sohail Ashraf has directed the relevant departments to take a strict approach toward serious fire safety violations and ensure that mandatory safety requirements are followed.
CDA Expands Fire Safety Inspections
The CDA’s Fire and Emergency Services Directorate has increased inspections across Islamabad.
Inspection teams are reviewing several key safety measures, including:
- Firefighting equipment
- Emergency exits
- Evacuation arrangements
- Fire prevention systems
- Other life safety requirements
The CDA’s Building Control Section has also been instructed to ensure that identified shortcomings are addressed within the specified period.
Building Owners Asked to Improve Safety Measures
The CDA has directed government departments, public-sector organizations, businesses and private building owners to complete all required fire safety arrangements without unnecessary delay.
The authority said building administrations would be given an opportunity to correct identified deficiencies. However, properties that continue to fail essential fire and life safety requirements may face further action under the applicable regulations.
The enforcement drive is intended to improve safety standards and reduce risks for people working in or visiting buildings across Islamabad.
