The PIMS fire safety audit directive has been issued for institutions under Pakistan’s Ministry of Maritime Affairs following the deadly hospital fire in Islamabad. Minister Junaid Anwar Chaudhry ordered an immediate review of fire safety arrangements across all facilities.
Under the directive, every institution must conduct a comprehensive audit and submit reports covering each building within 15 days. The review will include offices, hospitals, residential buildings, workshops, warehouses and other facilities under the ministry.
Chaudhry said particular attention should be given to the Karachi Port Trust Hospital. The minister directed officials to assess whether fire prevention and emergency response systems at the hospital are properly installed, accessible and operational.
The PIMS fire safety audit will examine firefighting equipment, including fire extinguishers, alarms, smoke detectors, hydrants and sprinklers. Officials will also check the condition and maintenance of electrical wiring, distribution systems, generators and UPS equipment.
The inspection will further assess emergency exits, escape routes, stairways and fire exits. Authorities have been directed to ensure these routes remain clearly marked, accessible and free from obstructions during emergencies.
Officials will also review emergency lighting, safety signs and evacuation arrangements. Fire evacuation and emergency response plans must include designated assembly points and clearly assigned responsibilities for staff members.
The minister’s directive follows a fire at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences in Islamabad that killed at least 14 infants. Rescue sources said the fire reportedly started after an air-conditioner compressor exploded inside a nursery, prompting renewed concerns over fire safety in public institutions.
