CDA seals 3 Islamabad buildings over fire safety breaches

The action was taken in accordance with government directions conveyed through the Secretary of the Ministry of Interior and followed earlier

ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has sealed three buildings and business centres in Islamabad for failing to comply with fire and life safety requirements, stepping up enforcement measures aimed at protecting occupants and the general public.

The action was taken in accordance with government directions conveyed through the Secretary of the Ministry of Interior and followed earlier safety notices issued by the CDA’s Fire and Emergency Services Directorate. The buildings were sealed after their administrations allegedly failed to address identified safety deficiencies within the prescribed requirements.

CDA Chairman and Chief Commissioner Islamabad Sohail Ashraf has directed all relevant formations to adopt a zero-tolerance policy towards serious fire safety violations and ensure that prescribed standards are implemented without exception.

He stressed that no building, institution or organisation should be allowed to compromise public safety by ignoring fire prevention measures or emergency response requirements. He further directed officials to ensure that enforcement action remains focused on preventing risks to human life and property.

The CDA’s Fire and Emergency Services Directorate has been carrying out inspections of buildings across the capital to identify shortcomings in fire protection systems, emergency exits, firefighting equipment, evacuation arrangements and other essential safety measures.

The authority has also advised the Commercial Section to ensure that identified deficiencies are rectified within the stipulated timeframe. Officials said the sealing action demonstrates that fire safety inspections are being followed by enforcement where serious violations remain unresolved.

CDA has urged owners and managements of public and private buildings to review their fire safety arrangements and ensure compliance with applicable standards. Officials have particularly stressed the importance of maintaining firefighting equipment, keeping emergency exits clear and ensuring that occupants can be safely evacuated during an emergency.

Chairman Sohail Ashraf reiterated that fire and life safety is a shared responsibility and that timely preventive measures can significantly reduce risks during emergencies.

The CDA said the enforcement campaign forms part of its broader efforts to improve safety, infrastructure and urban management in Islamabad. While building administrations will be given opportunities to rectify deficiencies, the authority warned that continued non-compliance with essential fire and life safety requirements would invite strict action.