Why does no one pay attention to fire prevention measures in Pakistan?
CHICAGO: Over the years, Ferozesons has become synonymous with book-reading in Pakistan. The fire that recently broke out at the Ferozsons premises in Lahore appears to be a case of cultural sabotage. The fire damaged the legacy of Maulvi Ferozuddin, who established Ferozesons a century ago.
The million dollar question is: why does no one pay attention to fire prevention measures in Pakistan? A few inexpensive fire alarms and fire extinguishers could have prevented this tragedy. All bookshops, libraries and museums housing vast amounts of cultural heritage, from Karachi to Peshawar, lack appropriate fire prevention equipment and are susceptible to such potential tragedies. It is incumbent on the owners and caretakers of these entities to invest in fire prevention strategies. The provincial and the federal governments should help Ferozesons restore the bookshop at the Mall, Lahore in its original condition.
Dr A Khan
Published In The Express Tribune, June 19th, 2012.
