More than 70% of nearly 1,900 buildings inspected in Karachi have failed to meet required fire safety standards. The findings have raised serious concerns about the safety of thousands of people.
The results were presented at the fourth National Fire Safety Conference and Risk-Based Awards 2026. The event was organized by the Fire Protection Association of Pakistan (FPAP).
Rescue 1122 Chief Operating Officer Abid Jalal shared details of the inspections. He said around 1,900 buildings had undergone fire safety audits since January.
More than 70% of these buildings showed weaknesses in their fire protection arrangements. These findings highlight major gaps in Karachi Fire Safety measures and building regulation enforcement.
Jalal said several major fire incidents had already exposed these weaknesses. He called for changes to the 2016 building code.
He also proposed establishing a dedicated technical body. This institution would oversee fire safety standards, inspections, and compliance across buildings.
Karachi Reports Around 160 Fires in Two Weeks
Chief Fire Officer Humayun Khan revealed another worrying development. Karachi had experienced approximately 160 fire incidents during the previous two weeks.
He identified several challenges affecting firefighting operations. These include illegal encroachments, narrow roads, and delays in reporting emergencies.
Khan also referred to the Gul Plaza fire. He said the central fire station received information nearly 26 minutes after the blaze started.
By that time, videos of the incident were already circulating on social media. He criticized people who record fires instead of immediately contacting emergency services.
He stressed that reporting delays can affect rescue efforts. Quick communication is essential during emergencies.
Khan also shared details about the city’s firefighting resources. Karachi’s fire stations have increased from 22 to 28.
The department currently has eight snorkels and 52 water bowzers. However, officials continue to face challenges during emergency response operations.
Experts Call for Stronger Fire Prevention Measures
FPAP President Kanwar Waseem emphasized the importance of preventive arrangements. He called for functional fire alarms, sprinklers, and fire extinguishers in buildings.
He also stressed the need for accessible emergency exits. Employees, students, and residents should receive practical fire safety training.
Former Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Javed Bilwani raised concerns about firefighting infrastructure. He pointed to shortages in commercial and industrial areas.
Bilwani said Karachi contributes approximately 54% of Pakistan’s exports. He also stated that the city generates around 67% of national tax revenues.
Despite its economic importance, several industrial estates and markets reportedly lack essential fire hydrants. He specifically mentioned McLeod Road as an area facing this problem.
Former PDMA Operations Director Imdad Siddiqui highlighted weak policy implementation. He also identified poor coordination between institutions as a major challenge.
Hussain Habib Corporation CEO Fawad Bari called for greater public awareness. He emphasized teaching children how to evacuate buildings and respond during emergencies.
Calls for Better Enforcement and Public Awareness
The conference also examined lessons from the Gul Plaza and PIMS fire tragedies. Participants called for stronger enforcement of existing safety regulations.
They stressed that Karachi Fire Safety requires more than inspections. Buildings need proper equipment, trained occupants, and clear emergency procedures.
Experts also emphasized cooperation between government departments and private institutions. Better coordination could improve emergency response and reduce risks.
In other related news also read Deadly Blast Kills 13 in Karachi Building Collapse
The inspection findings underline the need for immediate preventive action. Stronger regulations and regular monitoring could help protect residents, workers, and visitors across Karachi.
