'Hamara Karachi Movement' launches fire safety campaign

KARACHI:

The Hamara Karachi Movement, led by renowned architect Yasmeen Lari, formally launched its citywide civic campaign with a fire safety street assembly at Denso Hall Walking Street. The initiative comes in the wake of the Gul Plaza tragedy and aims to improve fire prevention standards and raise awareness of civic responsibility across Karachi.

Organised with the support of the Heritage Foundation Pakistan, Institute of Architects Pakistan, and Association of Consulting Engineers Pakistan, the assembly reviewed fire safety arrangements in nearby buildings and the Medicine Market, identifying structural weaknesses, blocked exits, electrical hazards, and lack of evacuation planning.

The event began with a fire drill demonstration, followed by Quran recitation, welcome remarks, and a technical presentation. Senior engineer Farooq Mehboob presented detailed findings based on surveys and consultations, offering practical recommendations including emergency access routes, fire detection systems, exit planning, electrical load management, and regular training drills for residents and traders.