CDA conducts fire mock drill at Serena Hotel Islamabad

The Capital Emergency Service (CES) of the Capital Development Authority (CDA) conducted a comprehensive fire mock drill at Serena Hotel

ISLAMABAD: The Capital Emergency Service (CES) of the Capital Development Authority (CDA) conducted a comprehensive fire mock drill at Serena Hotel Islamabad on Thursday to evaluate the hotel’s fire safety arrangements, emergency preparedness and evacuation procedures.

The exercise was organised as part of efforts to assess the effectiveness of existing safety mechanisms and determine how efficiently emergency teams and hotel staff could respond in the event of an actual fire or other unforeseen emergency.

During the mock exercise, the fire alarm system was activated to create a simulated emergency situation. Hotel occupants were instructed to leave the premises through designated emergency exits and follow established evacuation procedures.

The exercise provided emergency responders with an opportunity to assess the overall evacuation process and determine whether occupants could be moved to safety in an organised and timely manner.

CDA officials said the drill also focused on coordination between the Capital Emergency Service, hotel management and staff. Effective communication and coordination among emergency responders and building management are considered essential during a real emergency, particularly in a large facility accommodating a significant number of people.

CES teams participated in the exercise to assess their response capabilities and identify any possible gaps in the existing emergency arrangements. Officials also reviewed the procedures followed by hotel staff during the evacuation and emergency response process.

According to CDA officials, the mock drill was successfully completed and provided useful insight into areas where further improvements could be made. The exercise was also aimed at ensuring that safety procedures remain functional and that staff members are familiar with the steps required during an emergency.

Officials stressed the importance of conducting regular fire safety exercises in commercial buildings, hotels and other public facilities. Such drills help familiarise occupants and staff with emergency exits, evacuation procedures and the appropriate response to fire alarms.

A CDA spokesperson said the authority remained committed to improving fire prevention measures and strengthening public safety throughout Islamabad.

“The Capital Development Authority remains committed to enhancing fire prevention and public safety across Islamabad. Regular mock exercises and awareness campaigns are vital to safeguard lives and property,” the spokesperson said.

The exercise also served as an opportunity for the relevant authorities and hotel management to review existing safety arrangements and discuss potential improvements following the completion of the drill.

The management of Serena Hotel Islamabad participated in the review meeting held after the exercise. During the meeting, officials and hotel representatives discussed the performance of the emergency response arrangements and considered areas that could be further strengthened.

The CDA has continued to emphasise preparedness and preventive measures as important components of its broader public safety efforts in the capital. Regular mock drills allow emergency services to test their response systems under simulated conditions while helping organisations identify weaknesses before an actual emergency occurs.

The latest exercise at Serena Hotel Islamabad was therefore aimed not only at testing emergency procedures but also at promoting a stronger culture of fire safety, preparedness and awareness among staff and visitors.

Officials said similar exercises and safety awareness initiatives would remain important to ensure effective emergency response and protect lives and property across Islamabad.