And more deaths
Once again mysterious fires break out at business hubs in Karachi and Lahore, on the same day, causing deaths, injuries, and losses to the tune of millions. And once again relevant authorities prove incompetent both in terms of disaster prevention and management. Lahore’s Anarkali bazaar example is particularly instructive. The area comprises narrow, crowded lanes with the same route used for entry and exit. Such places are the most difficult to manage in times of crises and disasters. The logistical bottleneck prevents timely rescue, and causes panic and crowding that invariably add to the overall loss.
Had a similar fire broken out in Azam Cloth Market, for example, the death toll would have been much higher. It houses innumerable outlets, piled on top of each other, and suffers the same problem of one entry-exit route. Yet even as such problems have mounted, there is precious little relevant governments are seen doing to prevent such tragedies in future, whether in Karachi or Lahore. Indeed, if the most prominent cities are ignored in this manner, what must happen in smaller centres is self-explanatory. The last time Karachi and Lahore suffered simultaneous fires was in September 2012, when almost 300 people were killed and many more inured, yet it seems no lessons were learnt.
Those in charge must pull up their socks immediately. Much of the loss of life and financial damage in Karachi’s Timber Market and Lahore’s Anarkali was avoidable. Had just the basic principles of fire safety been followed, these issues would not be troublesome and recurring. Steps like provision of firefighting material, fire exits, and proper official oversight of construction – especially in crowded areas — must be ensured. It is incomprehensible that the government machinery remains paralysed despite encountering the same problem year after year. It is little surprise that people are eager to express discontent whenever there is the slightest opportunity. Such carelessness is unacceptable, and it is hoped the right lessons will be learnt this time.
