The Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) has introduced major amendments to the Building and Town Planning Regulations 2022 to enhance fire safety standards and ensure better compliance across the province. The changes come in response to the Gul Plaza tragedy and have taken effect immediately.
Key Changes in Building Requirements
The revised rules include:
- Additional space allocation: 16% extra area in projects for vehicles and motorcycles, with separate parking zones for public, visitors, and two-wheelers.
- Fire-fighting infrastructure: Public, industrial, and welfare buildings must include dedicated underground and overhead water tanks.
- MEP approval: Certified mechanical, electrical, and plumbing drawings related to fire safety must be submitted before construction approval.
- NOCs for commercial projects: Civil defense and fire department clearances are now mandatory before completion certificates are issued.
- Internal fire safety: Each shop must have at least one fire extinguisher, and departmental stores must install one extinguisher per 400 sq. ft.
All new and renewal building licenses will now be issued exclusively through SBCA headquarters, ensuring consistent oversight. The rules apply to both new projects and those currently under review. Officials stated that the amendments aim to close gaps in fire safety enforcement and improve supervision of construction across Sindh.
