Fire safety orders ignored despite Gul Plaza tragedy

The deadly Gul Plaza fire has failed to rouse building owners and relevant authorities from their apathetic slumber, as they continue to show a blatant disregard for fire safety regulations. Despite clear directives being issued for the installation of fire safety systems in buildings across the metropolis, little to no action has been taken by most building owners.

The Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) had given a three-day ultimatum for the installation of fire safety systems, but according to officials, even though written instructions were sent to the Chairman of the Association of Builders and Developers (ABAD), the response from the building management community has been underwhelming.

Local fire safety equipment vendors report that despite the SBCA's warnings and the public outcry following the Gul Plaza tragedy, the sale of fire safety systems remains largely unchanged. "The number of people buying fire safety equipment is either the same as before or has only slightly increased," said a trader from the wholesale market behind the Karachi Chamber of Commerce. Trader Shoaib, who operates in the fire safety market, pointed out the ongoing construction boom in the city, with new buildings being erected every day. However, he expressed concern that most builders are not considering fire safety measures for these new projects, nor are people rushing to install systems in existing buildings.