CM issues 2-week deadline for fire safety audit of buildings

LAHORE: The Punjab government has decided to conduct a comprehensive fire safety audit of all markets, schools, and high-rise buildings across the province. The Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz chaired a high-level meeting, to review the protection of public life and property.

The Chief Minister issued a strict two-week ultimatum for all establishments to comply with fire safety regulations and ordered province-wide fire drills to ensure emergency preparedness. She directed the full implementation of the Building Safety Act and announced the delegation of special powers to the PERA force to ensure compliance.

A specialized cell will also be established to monitor the enforcement of these safety protocols. Under the new directives, it is now mandatory for all buildings across the province to keep entry and exit points clear and to install accurate, visible safety signage.

During the briefing, it was highlighted that Rescue-1122 will identify and geo-tag key locations across Punjab, where WASA will ensure the installation of fire hydrants.

Furthermore, external fire hydrants are to be installed in all significant buildings within two weeks. To modernize firefighting capabilities, Rescue 1122 will be equipped with thermal drones and other advanced technological tools.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026