Punjab Pakistan’s most populous province is grappling with growing fire safety challenges due to limited resources outdated equipment and weak preparedness. Despite repeated fire tragedies the province has not added significant firefighting resources since 2019. Currently Punjab has over 300 firefighting vehicles, while Lahore, home to nearly 13 million people, operates only 58 fire tenders far below international standards requiring 260 for a city of its size.
Many areas including Defence Wagah, and inner city neighborhoods remain underserved with long distances to the nearest fire stations and water shortages delaying response times. Vehicles are often diverted for VIP duties further reducing emergency readiness. In 2025 alone Punjab recorded 28,495 fire incidents resulting in 99 deaths over 1,000 injuries and billions in damages. Short circuits negligence and gas leaks were leading causes.
A fire safety audit of 2,214 buildings found 1,722 categorized as extremely dangerous, with Lahore accounting for the highest risk. Narrow streets in markets and plazas have hindered firefighting efforts in past incidents, including fires at Shah Alam Market and LDA Plaza.
In response, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz ordered province-wide audits and directed compliance with safety regulations. Experts warn that without sustained investment and strict enforcement Punjab remains at risk of a major fire disaster.
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