ISLAMABAD: The tragic fire at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (Pims) gynaecology ward, which claimed the lives of 14 infants, has prompted authorities to conduct fire drills in key government offices to reinforce safety measures.

On Friday, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) conducted a special fire safety mock drill at the Parliament House to assess and strengthen emergency preparedness and response mechanisms in the event of a fire or other emergency.

Similarly, the Federal Constitutional Court of Pakistan (FCCP) organised a one-day training session on safety and emergency preparedness aimed at strengthening existing safety arrangements, enhancing practical awareness of fire safety and improving the capacity of officers and officials to respond promptly and effectively to emergency situations.

Last week, an interim report presented to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on the Pims fire stated that the hospital had no detailed standard operating procedures (SOPs) or training for dealing with fires or other emergency situations. The report necessitated mock fire drills to ensure fire safety and emergency preparedness.

CDA conducts mock drill at Parliament House; Federal Constitutional Court organises training session for officials

As part of the exercise, CDA created a simulated fire situation inside the Parliament House to assess evacuation procedures, emergency response, timely communication with relevant authorities, rescue operations and other essential safety measures.

Officers and officials of the Parliament House participated in the drill and extended cooperation to the CDA staff. The exercise also provided an opportunity to review existing emergency arrangements and identify areas for further improvement.

Officials said such drills are aimed at enhancing institutional preparedness, strengthening safety systems and ensuring the protection of human lives while minimising potential losses during emergencies.

On the other hand, FCC conducted the training session as an initiative for continuing efforts to strengthen institutional preparedness and enhance its capacity to respond effectively to emergency situations.

Justice Ali Baqar Najafi and Registrar Mohammad Hafeez Ullah Khan were present on the occasion, while officers and officials of the court participated in the training session.

At the outset, Mohammad Ahsan, Director Capital Emergency Service of the CDA, briefed the participants on the emergency response system in Islamabad and the procedures for ensuring an effective and coordinated response to emergencies.

Thereafter, Tariq Masood, Assistant Director, briefed the participants on the nature and classes of fire, appropriate firefighting methods, personal safety measures, safe evacuation procedures and key aspects of emergency preparedness and contingency planning. The participants were also provided hands-on training in the correct and safe use of fire extinguishers. The experts addressed the participants’ queries and provided practical guidance on relevant safety measures.

Speaking on the occasion, Justice Ali Baqar Najafi observed that the training session was aimed at reviewing the existing safety arrangements and identifying measures for their further improvement. He reiterated the key safety considerations highlighted during the session and expressed the hope that the training would prove beneficial for the officers and officials of the court.

Published in Dawn, September 5th, 2026