The Capital Development Authority has taken action against 48 public and private hospitals and medical centres in Islamabad after inspections uncovered serious gaps in fire and life safety arrangements.
The healthcare facilities have collectively been fined Rs14.05 million following enforcement inspections carried out in the aftermath of the PIMS tragedy.
PIMS, Polyclinic Hospital and Capital Hospital were each issued a fine of Rs500,000. Several other major medical facilities were also penalised for failing to meet required safety standards.
CDA inspection teams identified problems involving fire alarm systems, detection equipment, emergency exits, firefighting facilities and evacuation arrangements.
Officials said some hospitals had already been instructed to address safety deficiencies during earlier inspections. However, several institutions allegedly failed to implement the required improvements within the given timeframe.
The latest action reflects growing scrutiny of fire safety arrangements in healthcare facilities, where patients may face additional risks during emergencies because many are unable to evacuate without assistance.
Hospitals and medical centres are expected to maintain functioning emergency systems and ensure that evacuation routes remain accessible to patients, staff and rescue personnel.
The fines are intended to push institutions toward compliance and address safety shortcomings identified during the inspections. The action also highlights the importance of regular safety checks at hospitals, particularly following a major incident involving vulnerable patients.
Authorities are expected to continue monitoring the penalised facilities and assess whether the required corrective measures are implemented.
The CDA’s enforcement drive signals a stronger focus on fire prevention and emergency preparedness across Islamabad’s healthcare sector. Healthcare institutions that fail to address identified safety violations could face further action under the applicable regulations.
The latest inspections and penalties are aimed at ensuring that hospitals provide safer environments and are better prepared to protect patients and staff during emergencies.
