LHC seeks reports on fire safety measures in buildings

The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Thursday sought detailed reports from the federal and provincial governments and other relevant authorities on a petition seeking identification of those responsible for recurring fire incidents in buildings

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Mar, 2026) The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Thursday sought detailed reports from the Federal and provincial governments and other relevant authorities on a petition seeking identification of those responsible for recurring fire incidents in buildings.

Chief Justice Justice Aalia Neelum heard the petition filed by Advocate Azhar Siddique.

During the hearing, the petitioner’s counsel argued that frequent fire incidents were occurring due to failure to implement the building code and the Fire Act. He informed the court that more than 78 percent of buildings in the city fall in Grade D category in terms of fire safety standards.

The lawyer further stated that 682 buildings in the city have been declared high-risk, while 13 buildings have been classified as uninhabitable due to safety concerns.

He also pointed out the absence of a unified command and control system, modern firefighting equipment, and a shared database to effectively manage fire emergencies.

The counsel requested the court to direct authorities to strictly enforce the building code and ensure the provision of alternative emergency exits in buildings.

At this, the chief justice questioned what safety measures were being implemented in buildings currently under construction and how fire safety arrangements in new structures were being monitored?

Subsequently, the court issued notices and sought detailed reports from the federal and provincial governments and other relevant departments.