ISLAMABAD: The Directorate of Emergency and Disaster Management has issued a strong call to ensure the implementation of fire safety laws and precautions in private housing societies located in Islamabad.
Sources revealed that numerous approved housing societies lack adequate emergency and firefighting facilities, which are mandated by existing rules and regulations.
In a letter addressed to the Director of Housing Societies, Director of Regional Planning, and Registrar of cooperative housing societies in the district administration, the Additional Director of Emergency and Disaster Management emphasized the need for strict adherence to relevant laws in private housing societies.
The letter also warned that fire incidents in these societies cannot be effectively responded to solely by the Capital Development Authority (CDA).
The Directorate suggested that dedicated spaces for “Fire Sub-Station” and its allied staff should be made mandatory during the approval of “LOPs/Revised-LOP and issuance of NOC” by the relevant formations.
According to officials, this measure aims to enhance the life safety of the inhabitants of these housing schemes.
Additionally, the Municipal Corporation Islamabad (MCI) offered full support for training the staff hired by private housing societies, providing advice on procuring technically feasible equipment and aiding in the recruitment of technical human resources.
However, the expenses incurred for these measures will be borne by the housing societies themselves.
The letter also proposed that the “Fire Sub-Station” be equipped with ambulance services to further ensure the safety and well-being of the residents.
It is noteworthy that this letter aligns with the Ministry of Interior’s directives to transform the capital into a role model of a resilient city in terms of fire safety.
The sources also revealed that this is not the first time such requests have been made.
In the past, similar appeals were issued, but the concerned formations have not given due attention to these crucial matters.
Source: The Nation
