Citizen-Led Fire Safety Drive Begins at Denso Hall Rahguzar

By: Aziz Khatri 

 KARACHI, Feb 24: The Humaara Karachi Movement, led by architect Dr Yasmeen Lari, launched its citywide citizen initiative on Monday with a Street Assembly on fire safety at Denso Hall Rahguzar Walking Street.

The initiative, conceived in the aftermath of the recent Gul Plaza tragedy, marks the start of a structured, zero‑funding and non‑political effort to improve fire safety standards and civic responsibility across Karachi. Organised by the Humaara Karachi Core Committee in collaboration with the Heritage Foundation of Pakistan, the Institute of Architects Pakistan and the Association of Consulting Engineers Pakistan, the assembly focused on fire protection arrangements for Rahguzar buildings and the adjoining medicine market.

The programme began with a live fire drill demonstration at 11:30am, followed by recitation from the Holy Quran, welcome remarks and a detailed technical presentation.

Senior engineer Engr Farooq Mehboob delivered a comprehensive briefing on fire hazards in the medicine market, drawing on surveys of local buildings and discussions with owners. He highlighted structural vulnerabilities, blocked access points, electrical risks and the lack of coordinated evacuation plans.

He presented clear, implementable recommendations, including improved emergency access, mandatory fire detection systems, designated escape routes, rooftop access planning, proper electrical load management, installation of fire extinguishers and hydrant systems, and regular coordinated drills for occupants and traders. A question‑and‑answer session allowed residents, shopkeepers and professionals to engage directly with technical experts and discuss practical next steps.

The organisers thanked Deputy Commissioner South Javed Khoso and Assistant Commissioner Aram Bagh for their support and facilitation in ensuring the event was conducted smoothly and in line with official requirements.

Humaara Karachi, a citizen‑driven platform, says it will continue holding structured assemblies, technical reviews and awareness sessions in high‑risk commercial zones of the city, with a focus on prevention, compliance and collective responsibility.