RAWALPINDI: The Punjab government has directed the Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation (RMC), district administration, and municipal committees to ensure the installation of emergency external staircases in all three-storey buildings within 15 days, officials said on Friday. The move comes as part of new fire safety measures aimed at preventing tragedies similar to the Karachi Gul Plaza incident.
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In addition, the Water and Sanitation Agency (Wasa) has been ordered to install water hydrants in major markets, including Raja Bazaar and the Commercial Market, to facilitate firefighting in areas where heavy fire vehicles face access issues due to narrow streets. Government-run hospitals have also been instructed to install all required fire safety equipment promptly.
District Emergency Officer Sibghatullah explained that new standard operating procedures (SOPs) have been issued for all departments and civic agencies. “No building plan will now be approved without incorporating emergency exits,” he said, stressing joint coordination among civic bodies to protect commercial plazas, hospitals, bazaars, and public spaces.
A high-level meeting on rescue and emergency arrangements was held under Commissioner Amir Khattak, attended by officials from Rescue 1122, Civil Defence, and other relevant departments. The session focused on devising a coordinated divisional strategy to respond to emergencies, natural disasters, and accidents.
The commissioner emphasized regular emergency drills in public and private buildings, educational institutions, and markets, as well as the development of detailed action plans outlining manpower, machinery, and response times. Departments were also instructed to maintain updated data on risk-prone locations and establish effective communication systems for real-time emergency coordination.
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As part of the preparedness plan, Rescue 1122 motorbikes will be mobilized for rapid access to narrow streets, enabling timely first aid and rescue operations. A follow-up meeting is scheduled for Monday to review progress and ensure the readiness of all agencies.