The Sindh Education Department has issued comprehensive fire safety guidelines for private schools across the province following the deadly Gul Plaza fire.
In a notification released on Tuesday, the department directed all private educational institutions to implement the measures with immediate effect. Under the new guidelines, schools must install essential fire safety equipment, including:
- Fire alarms
- Smoke detectors
- Fire extinguishers
Institutions have also been instructed to keep emergency exits and staircases open, accessible, and clearly marked at all times.
The directive makes regular inspection of electrical wiring and systems mandatory to reduce fire risks. Schools must also display emergency evacuation plans at prominent, visible locations on their premises.
The department has ordered schools to conduct fire drills at least twice a year. Fire safety training for teachers and non-teaching staff has also been made compulsory to ensure effective emergency response.
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Schools have been directed to put in place special safety arrangements for students with special needs. Each institution must also designate a clearly identified assembly point for evacuations.
The Sindh Education Department warned that strict action will be taken against schools that fail to comply with the new safety requirements. Officials said inspections will be carried out to ensure enforcement.
The move comes after a massive fire engulfed Gul Plaza on January 17, destroying the multi-storey shopping complex that housed around 1,200 family-run shops selling household goods, toys, and children’s clothing.
More than 70 bodies have been recovered so far, while search operations continue to locate additional victims. Authorities said the new measures aim to prevent similar tragedies and improve emergency preparedness in educational institutions across Sindh.
