In the wake of escalating fire incidents in the city, authorities have identified a concerning lack of fire safety measures in several buildings on II Chundrigar Road. The report, commissioned by Mayor Karachi, was conducted by fire brigade officials who inspected 45 structures on the mentioned road.
According to the findings, a staggering 29 out of the 45 buildings were declared completely unsatisfactory in terms of fire safety. The alarming revelation underscores a significant gap in the city’s preparedness for fire emergencies. With a focus on II Chundrigar Road, a bustling area with commercial and residential establishments, the report has raised serious concerns about the safety of the occupants and the potential for catastrophic events in case of a fire outbreak.
The report highlighted several critical deficiencies, with 77 percent of the buildings lacking essential firefighting equipment and personnel. Shockingly, none of the structures had expert firefighters on-site, emphasizing the need for trained professionals to handle emergency situations effectively.
The buildings on II Chundrigar Road collectively accommodate over 34,000 individuals, making the absence of proper fire safety measures even more precarious. Only 16 out of the 45 buildings had water connections dedicated to firefighting, leaving 29 structures without any fire control equipment whatsoever.
Perhaps equally distressing is the revelation that none of the inspected buildings possessed fire safety certification, indicating a lack of adherence to established safety standards. This further raises questions about the overall safety protocols and compliance mechanisms in place for buildings in Karachi.
In response to the report, Mayor Karachi, Murtaza Wahab, expressed deep concern about the findings. He stated that an immediate and comprehensive fire safety audit would be conducted for all buildings across the entire city. This move reflects a commitment to addressing the systemic issues highlighted in the report and ensuring the safety and well-being of the residents and workers in Karachi.
The announcement underscores the need for proactive measures in enhancing fire safety infrastructure, promoting awareness, and enforcing stringent regulations to prevent and manage fire emergencies effectively. As Karachi grapples with these revelations, it serves as a reminder of the critical importance of robust safety protocols to safeguard lives and property in urban centers. The upcoming fire safety audit will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the city’s response to such emergencies in the future.
