ISLAMABAD — In response to a gas cylinder explosion in G-7 that killed eight people and injured 11 others, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) has announced a comprehensive survey of fire safety and emergency preparedness in all residential and commercial buildings across the federal capital. The survey is to be completed within one month.
CDA Chairman Mohammad Ali Randhawa directed that inspections be carried out to assess fire safety measures, including the availability and adequacy of emergency exits. Notices are being issued to owners of both private and public properties, and inspection teams have already begun work.
“In every building, emergency exits must be ensured in case of fire or short circuits,” the press release stated. “Owners of private buildings should develop emergency exit plans through consultants, while public buildings should prepare plans in consultation with the CDA.”
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The Building Control Directorate has formed dedicated teams to survey sensitive buildings first, with reports to be submitted promptly to relevant officers. Sensitive buildings identified during the survey will undergo elevation and safety adjustments as required.
The explosion, which claimed the lives of the groom, bride, and the groom’s mother among others, was caused by a gas leak. Chairman Randhawa visited the accident site and the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) Hospital to oversee the condition of the injured and directed the provision of optimal medical care.
CDA chairman says emergency exits must be ensured in every residential and commercial building in case of fire or short circuits. https://t.co/9mXVq7vry3
— Dawn.com (@dawn_com) January 12, 2026
He noted that such incidents frequently occur during winter due to careless handling of gas cylinders. The CDA has assured support for the affected families and a transparent inquiry into the incident.
The Capital Emergency Service responded within five minutes of receiving the distress call, deploying 45 rescue and medical personnel, 10 ambulances, and one rescue vehicle. Firefighting, rescue, and medical operations were successfully carried out, minimizing further casualties.
The CDA emphasized that the survey and subsequent enforcement of safety measures aim to prevent similar tragedies and strengthen Islamabad’s emergency response framework.
