Lahore: Following a recent incident of the city, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed deputy commissioners (DCs) to ensure the installation of fire hydrants and other safety measures in all commercial and high-rise buildings across the province within 30 days.
At a provincial cabinet meeting on Tuesday, which was broadcast live, the CM emphasized that under-construction buildings must have fully functional fire safety systems before completion. She also instructed that the prices of fire hydrants be fixed for the next 30 days to prevent price surges due to high demand.
Read: Punjab sets deadline for safety measures in Rawalpindi buildings
Maryam Nawaz further outlined that commercial plazas should be equipped with first aid facilities, oxygen cylinders, automatic water sprinklers, and ventilated emergency staircases, preferably located outside buildings. She stressed that no boilers or hazardous, smoke-emitting materials should be allowed in basements, and all substandard boilers should be sealed immediately to prevent accidents.
The CM highlighted the risks in markets dealing with chemicals, plastics, and garments, noting that encroachments, overcrowding, and blocked exits increase the danger during emergencies. She urged authorities to clear all entry and exit points and remove unsafe structures to ensure public safety.