Consumer Rights Commission of Pakistan (CRCP) on Tuesday urged the construction industry to follow international quality standards in execution of civil works so as to avoid collateral damages like the October 8, 2005 earthquake. The CRCP said in a statement at World Standards Day, which is observed every year on October 14.
The theme for the 2008 World Standards Day is "Intelligent and sustainable buildings." The CRCP understands the importance of adherence to quality and standards by the construction industry. The world is increasingly moving towards urbanisation and the construction industry has become the fastest growing industry in the world.
Ignoring quality and standards in design and construction of buildings will endanger a vast majority of population of the world. The construction and its related industries should strictly follow the international quality standards as their work involves millions of human lives, it said. The CRCP has been struggling for the implementation of international quality standards in Pakistan. It was one of the main actors behind the creation of the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA).
The government should ensure strict compliance of international quality standards in this regard. The re-construction of the earthquake-affected areas should he strictly in accordance with the international buildings and seismic standards to avoid any damages.
The government should give NOC to only those companies that follow the international standards in construction. There should be no compromise on construction related materials. The government should also strictly fulfil its overseeing role during various stages of projects. The CRCP reiterates its resolve to strive for the implementation of international quality standards and consumer rights. It demanded of the government to realise the importance and use of standard materials in all building construction.