The federal government has approved the installation of modern fire sprinkler and alarm systems in government buildings across Islamabad following the death of newborn babies in the PIMS nursery fire, sources told ProPakistani.
The decision was taken by the Secretaries Committee on Tuesday amid concerns over fire-safety compliance in federal government buildings.
The new systems will be installed in ministries, divisions and other government buildings where adequate fire-protection arrangements are currently unavailable.
Secretary Cabinet told ProPakistani that the systems would be installed in government buildings that do not already have the required fire-safety facilities.
The PIMS tragedy exposed major gaps in fire preparedness at the hospital. Investigations pointed to inadequate fire alarms and sprinkler systems, while questions were also raised about emergency exits and response procedures.
Following the incident, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) stepped up enforcement of fire and life-safety regulations in Islamabad.
CDA sealed several buildings over non-compliance, including the Shaheed-i-Millat Building, State Life Building, Trade Development Authority of Pakistan Building and Beverly Center. Parts of two hotels in Blue Area were also reportedly sealed.
The authority also imposed Rs. 500,000 fines on PIMS, Polyclinic and CDA’s Capital Hospital for violating fire and life-safety requirements.
Sources said CDA will have a key role in checking fire-safety compliance in government buildings and identifying facilities that require new fire-protection systems.
Meanwhile, the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on National Health Services has questioned fire-safety arrangements, emergency preparedness, electrical and oxygen systems, and staff training at PIMS.
The committee has also called for accountability of those responsible for the tragedy.
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