Karachi: Kaukab Iqbal, Chairman of the Consumers Association of Pakistan (CAP), has expressed deep concern over the alarming and recurring incidents of fires in markets and commercial buildings across the city of Karachi.
He stated that it has been consistently observed over many years that whenever a major fire erupts in a market or commercial building in Karachi, similar fire incidents follow in other areas of the city within a short span of days. This recurring pattern has become a serious public safety issue and can no longer be dismissed as mere coincidence.
“As Chairman of the Consumers Association of Pakistan, I have closely observed this disturbing trend for many years. Fires break out in one area, and shortly afterward, other markets or buildings across Karachi experience similar incidents. This clearly indicates that there may be an underlying connection that requires urgent and thorough investigation,” Kaukab Iqbal said.
He emphasized that these repeated fire incidents result in massive financial losses to traders and shopkeepers, disrupt consumer supply chains, and put the lives of citizens and firefighters at extreme risk. In several cases, people lose their entire livelihoods within minutes, while rescue workers pay the ultimate price due to unsafe structures and lack of preparedness.
Kaukab Iqbal further highlighted that weak enforcement of building codes, illegal electrical connections, absence of fire safety systems, poor construction practices, and regulatory negligence may be contributing factors. He stressed that without identifying and addressing the root causes, Karachi will continue to suffer such devastating losses.
“The pattern of repeated fires across Karachi points towards systemic failure,” he added. “After every incident, we hear assurances, but no lasting reforms are implemented. This cycle of tragedy and neglect must come to an end.”
The Chairman of CAP urged the Sindh Government and relevant authorities to immediately constitute an independent, high-level investigation commission to examine:
•The recurring fire incidents across Karachi
•Compliance with fire safety and building regulations
•The role of regulatory and inspection authorities
•Any possible criminal negligence or financial motives
He also called for strict implementation of fire safety laws, mandatory periodic inspections of markets and commercial buildings, installation of modern fire prevention systems, and exemplary punishment for those found responsible.
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