Chief Secretary Asif Haider Shah laid bare the findings in Thursday’s pivotal meeting, categorizing violations from severe to minor. While high-risk sites face shutdowns, others must fast-track repairs. This response follows the catastrophic shopping complex blaze that left scars across Karachi, injuring scores and devastating livelihoods.

In parallel, Islamabad’s CDA ramped up scrutiny, surveying 6,500 structures including key government ones. The verdict: widespread non-compliance with fire safety plans and certifications. Chairman Ali Randhawa’s team highlighted the urgency, backed by Home Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s mandate for swift action.

Owners now have 15 days to comply in the capital, or brace for penalties under the CDA Ordinance and updated building control laws. The Express Tribune and Dawn reports paint a picture of regulatory neglect amid rapid urbanization.

As enforcement intensifies, experts call for modern fire systems, regular drills, and stricter building codes. The Gul Plaza horror serves as a grim reminder: complacency kills. Pakistan’s cities must prioritize safety to shield their booming populations from preventable disasters.