ISLAMABAD: Authorities in Islamabad have approved the use of drones to support firefighting operations in high-rise buildings, as part of tighter safety measures introduced after a deadly fire at a commercial building in Karachi earlier this month.
The decision was taken during a meeting of the Capital Development Authority chaired by Islamabad Chief Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa, according to Pakistani state media.
Officials said drones would be deployed to assist rescue and firefighting teams in situations where access to upper floors is limited, allowing real-time assessment of fire spread and structural conditions in tall buildings.
The move follows the January 17 blaze in Karachi, which killed at least 27 people and prompted renewed scrutiny of fire safety standards in urban centres.
Authorities said all high-rise buildings in Islamabad would now be surveyed and classified, with strict enforcement of functional fire safety systems, emergency exits and compliance certifications.
Approval of fire safety plans has been made mandatory before construction of new buildings, while older and sensitive structures will be reviewed to ensure compliance with updated regulations.
Officials also directed emergency services to conduct regular simulation drills in coordination with district administrations to improve preparedness for high-rise fire incidents.
