The Sindh Education Department has issued comprehensive fire safety guidelines for private schools across the province in response to the Gul Plaza tragedy. The School Education Department directed all private educational institutions to immediately implement these new safety measures, following a devastating fire that engulfed the multi-storey shopping mall on January 17.
Newly introduced mandatory measures include installing fire alarms and smoke detectors, ensuring emergency exits and staircases are open, accessible, and clearly marked at all times. Institutions must also conduct regular inspections of electrical systems and display emergency evacuation plans in prominent locations. Fire drills should be conducted at least twice a year, along with compulsory training for teachers and non-teaching staff. Special safety arrangements have been ordered for students with special needs, including the designation of clear assembly points.
The Sindh Education Department has warned that strict action will be taken against institutions failing to comply with these directives. This move follows the devastating fire at Gul Plaza on January 17, which resulted in the loss of more than 70 lives and continues to affect search operations.