Centaurus mall fire

A large blaze broke out at the popular Centaurus mall in Islamabad a few days back. According to reports, the fire initially started on the third floor in Monal restaurant before spreading to other parts of the mall. Fortunately, the fire was extinguished in a matter of hours as people rushed to evacuate. No casualties were reported.

The ICT administration has sealed the mall and three residential buildings nearby until a report on the structural capability of the towers after this fire is received. A seven-member committee has also been formed to probe the incident and ascertain the cause of the fire. This is because a case has been registered in this regard by unidentified persons under Section 436 (mischief by fire or explosive substance with intent to destroy) but speculations suggest that this might be a cover-up. The fact of the matter is that majority of high-rise buildings in all major cities of the country are operating without completion certificates and a certified fire and safety system. Corruption is also rampant in the construction sector and construction certificates are granted without proper inspection. At times, builders do not incorporate proper parking in the plan or even add more floors than the set limit. As seen in the recent past, there are many buildings that are constructed on drainage lines as well. This poses great risk to citizens as any unforeseen situation can cause loss of life or even result in the collapse of the building altogether.

Lack of accountability has given builders a free pass if they are able to grease the relevant official’s palm. This merits attention from higher officials who should reinforce the writ of the law and penalise those risking the lives of innocent people.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 16^th, 2022.

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