The Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) has launched a major fire safety inspection across Karachi after the deadly fire at Gul Plaza exposed serious weaknesses in safety systems of commercial and residential buildings.
According to officials, SBCA teams have started inspecting fire safety arrangements in buildings across the city.
In the initial phase, inspections were carried out in 35 residential and commercial buildings to evaluate the availability and functionality of firefighting equipment, emergency exits, and alarm systems.
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Director General SBCA Muzammil Hussain Halepoto said that specialised technical teams have been deployed to test firefighting systems and emergency preparedness in buildings.
He stated that notices would be issued to building owners and managements where deficiencies are found in fire safety arrangements.
“If building owners fail to comply with SBCA instructions, strict action will be taken, including sealing of the premises,” the DG SBCA warned.
He stressed that ensuring fire safety is a shared responsibility of builders, owners, and building unions, and negligence in this regard will not be tolerated.
READ: Karachi Gul Plaza Fire, Live Updates
Officials revealed that the SBCA has already issued fire safety notices to 266 buildings identified in a Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) survey, along with other key residential and commercial structures in the city.
These buildings have been directed to install and operationalise firefighting equipment and emergency systems within a stipulated timeframe.
On the directives of Provincial Minister for Local Government Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, a province-wide enforcement drive has been launched to ensure strict compliance with fire safety regulations across Sindh.
Regional SBCA offices have been instructed to conduct inspections and take action against non-compliant buildings in their respective areas.
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Officials said the inspection campaign was intensified after the Gul Plaza fire, which highlighted serious shortcomings in fire safety preparedness in many buildings.
Despite earlier directives issued by KMC in January 2024 to ensure fire safety compliance, implementation remained weak, officials admitted.
The SBCA stated that it is working in coordination with KMC and Civil Defence to strengthen fire safety mechanisms across the province. Authorities said inspections and enforcement actions will continue to prevent future tragedies and protect lives and property.
