He explained that the department has imposed millions in fines on high-rise buildings in the past, however, nothing had been recovered. This was the first time, it said, that the directorate had managed to recover a spot fine from a violator under the fire prevention and life safety regulations. In the light of survey, the CDA compiled detailed safety regulations as per international standards, which was approved by the CDA Board. The building standards have been divided into three categories: fire prevention, life safety and fire protection. Under the safety regulations, E&DM has the powers to vacate or seal any building or impose fine up to Rs500,000 if it finds any violation of Fire Prevention and Life Safety regulations.

Source: The Express Tribune December 18, 2017 05:15 UTC