90pc of buildings lack fire safety measures in three districts of Karachi: SBCA

The Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) has begun a survey of buildings across three districts of Karachi.

Following the Gul Plaza tragedy, the survey conducted in three districts of the city has revealed that around 90 per cent of buildings lack proper fire safety arrangements.

A fire audit of residential and commercial buildings has been initiated in Karachi East, Central and South districts, and the SBCA has issued notices to more than 300 buildings for failing to ensure fire safety measures.

According to the notices, building owners have been given three days to complete the required fire safety arrangements.

SBCA officials said that fire safety equipment in some buildings was found to be non-functional, while most high-rise buildings lacked emergency exits.

In several cases, emergency exit routes were found blocked.

Officials added that the survey is being carried out by special SBCA teams along with fire brigade personnel. Legal action will be taken against those who fail to comply with the notices.

The SBCA further stated that buildings failing to implement fire safety measures within three days will be sealed.

Owners and building unions will also be required to obtain a fire brigade no-objection certificate (NOC). The sealing process will be carried out with the assistance of the district administration.