ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has issued a formal fire safety compliance notice to the Islamabad Marriott Hotel after an inspection identified deficiencies in fire prevention, emergency response and life safety arrangements.

The notice, issued Sept. 2 by the CDA’s Directorate of Emergency & Disaster Management, directed the hotel administration to immediately address the reported shortcomings and fulfill mandatory requirements under the Islamabad Fire Prevention & Life Safety Regulations 2010, notified through SRO-70(1)/2011.

The notice was issued in the name of the building’s owner, Hassan Hashwani. According to the CDA, the hotel management must fully implement its approved Fire Safety Plan and ensure that fire protection and emergency equipment is properly installed, functional and regularly maintained.

The inspection identified deficiencies involving fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, water sprinklers, drenchers, hydrants, automatic sprinkler installations, fire alarm systems and smoke detection equipment.

Officials also highlighted concerns over water storage tanks and the operational condition of fire hydrants. Other shortcomings involved emergency exits, emergency hall lighting, ladder access and the hotel’s intercom system.

Electrical wiring was also identified as an area requiring corrective measures, indicating that the hotel must address related electrical safety risks alongside the reported fire safety deficiencies.

The CDA has instructed the management to complete all requirements under the approved Fire Safety Plan and restore the identified systems and equipment to full working order at the earliest. After completing the required measures, the hotel must submit a compliance report to the Director or Additional Director of Emergency & Disaster Management.

CDA officials will conduct a follow-up inspection after receiving the report to determine whether the deficiencies identified during the initial assessment have been satisfactorily rectified.

The authority has warned that failure to comply could result in enforcement proceedings and other legal consequences. The notice states that Section 5 of the Building Ordinance may be invoked in cases of continued non-compliance, potentially leading to the sealing of the building.

The CDA also stated that a challan may be issued along with a fine of Rs. 3,000. Further action under Section 9 may also be initiated if violations of the relevant fire safety regulations are established.

The notice was received on behalf of the hotel management by Muhammad Bilal Qumi, A. Chief Engineer.

The Islamabad Marriott Hotel is a major five-star hospitality establishment in the capital and regularly accommodates guests, conference participants and visitors.

The latest action comes as the CDA continues fire safety inspections and audits of commercial, public and other major buildings across Islamabad. The authority has emphasized compliance with established fire prevention, emergency evacuation and life safety standards.