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The Punjab government has announced plans to install 1,142 fire hydrants at major commercial markets, plazas, and business centers across the province, as part of a broader effort to strengthen fire safety standards. The hydrants are expected to be operational by March 1, with Rescue 1122 tasked with overseeing their installation.
The move follows recent fire incidents in the region, including the Gul Plaza fire in Karachi, prompting authorities to issue directives for the enforcement of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in plazas, schools, and hospitals. Stakeholders have been given two weeks to implement the required safety measures.
Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari said the government has introduced a building grading system, classifying structures as A-grade for safe buildings and assigning other grades according to their condition. She added that the province’s firefighting sector is being modernized with updated equipment, drones, and advanced technology to improve emergency response.
In addition, Rescue 1122 will provide the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) with a geotagged list of water hydrants, while a new monitoring cell under the PERA Force will ensure compliance with SOPs. Buildings are now legally required to clearly display entry and exit points, a measure aimed at facilitating evacuations during emergencies.
The government’s comprehensive plan reflects a renewed focus on fire safety in commercial areas, aiming to reduce risks and ensure timely response in the event of fire-related incidents.
