ISLAMABAD: Following a deadly gas cylinder explosion in G-7 informal settlements that killed eight people and injured 11 others, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) has ordered a comprehensive survey of fire safety and emergency response measures across all residential and commercial buildings in Islamabad. The directive aims to prevent future incidents and ensure preparedness in emergencies.
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CDA Chairman Mohammad Ali Randhawa instructed that all private and public buildings be inspected within one month. Notices are being issued to property owners, while survey teams formed by the Building Control Directorate have already started assessing sensitive buildings. Owners of private properties are required to develop emergency exit plans in consultation with certified consultants, while public buildings must coordinate directly with the CDA.
🔥 When safety meets excellence 🛡️
Rastgar Engineering Company successfully conducted fire safety drill in Islamabad. Every team member participated, every protocol followed.
Safety isn’t optional—it’s our culture.#RastgarEngineering #FireSafety #PakistanEngineering pic.twitter.com/F8ggonIPwD— Rastgar Engineering Company (@RastgarEngg) January 12, 2026
The chairman emphasized that emergency exits and fire safety protocols are critical to safeguarding lives. Sensitive buildings identified during the survey will undergo further evaluation and elevation measures to strengthen safety. The CDA has vowed a transparent inquiry into the recent blast, which was caused by a gas leak, and pledged support for affected families.
Mr. Randhawa visited the explosion site and the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) Hospital to review the condition of the injured. He highlighted that winter often sees a rise in such accidents due to careless gas cylinder usage and urged citizens to exercise caution. The Capital Emergency Service responded within five minutes of the blast, deploying 45 personnel, 10 ambulances, and one rescue vehicle, ensuring timely rescue and medical assistance.
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The CDA’s citywide initiative reflects heightened concern over fire safety standards and emergency preparedness in the federal capital. Officials said the survey will provide critical data to improve building regulations and response protocols, aiming to prevent loss of life in future incidents.