Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed deputy commissioners to ensure the installation of fire hydrants in all commercial and high-rise buildings across the province within 30 days. The order was issued during a provincial cabinet meeting held in Lahore.

The instructions came days after a fire broke out at a hotel in Lahore’s Gulberg area, killing three people. Seven others suffered burn injuries, while 275 guests and staff were safely evacuated during the rescue operation.

Maryam Nawaz also ordered that all under-construction buildings must have complete fire safety systems installed before they are declared finished. She stressed that all safety equipment must be fully functional, not just installed for formality.

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To prevent price manipulation, the chief minister instructed authorities to “lock” the prices of fire hydrants for the next 90 days, warning that demand could lead to sudden price hikes.

She further ordered that all commercial plazas must have first-aid facilities, oxygen cylinders, automatic water sprinkler systems, and well-ventilated emergency staircases, preferably located outside the buildings. She also banned boilers and hazardous or smoke-emitting materials in basements.

“Seal every substandard boiler immediately,” Maryam said, warning that boiler explosions cause massive destruction and loss of life. She added that even one death affects an entire family.

The chief minister noted that safety is often ignored in markets dealing with chemicals, plastic, and garments. She said encroachments, overcrowding, and narrow spaces worsen emergencies, leading to suffocation and panic.

“We must remove all encroachments and clear all entry and exit points,” she stressed, warning that poor planning traps people during emergencies.

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Maryam Nawaz praised rescue teams for their quick response during the Gulberg hotel fire, highlighting that Rescue 1122 reached the site within five minutes, preventing a bigger tragedy.

She also expressed sorrow over the recent fire at Karachi’s Gul Plaza. She said the Punjab government stands with the affected families and is ready to offer any assistance if required.