Soran fire prompts review of building codes

SORAN, January 28 — Following a deadly fire in Soran, the Ministry of Municipalities and Tourism of the Kurdistan Region issued a directive emphasizing civil defense and fire safety in buildings. Minister Sasan Awni signed the directive, mandating all municipalities to enforce these guidelines.

The ministry highlighted the directive’s role in protecting citizens’ lives and properties, both public and private, through thorough inspections and the implementation of safety standards.

Karzan Abdul Hadi, Deputy Mayor of Erbil, discussed the ministry’s directive with 964media, saying, “The directive aims to prevent similar incidents and address any issues related to exit routes in buildings and hotels.”

Abdul Hadi noted that following the directive, the Erbil Municipality began inspections, warning that any non-compliant locations will be required to make necessary changes to layouts and structures.

This move by the ministry, coupled with Erbil municipality’s statement, point towards efforts to enhance oft criticised safety protocols and regulation in the Kurdistan Region.

A fire on Dec. 8, 2023, in Soran resulted in 14 deaths and multiple injuries. The fire occurred in a building used as university housing.

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