LAHORE: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued solar panel Installation guidelines to Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners of the province.

The PDMA has issued formal guidelines to all Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners across the province regarding the safe installation of solar panels.

PDMA said directive, issued in light of instructions from the Energy Department, emphasizes the immediate dissemination of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to all relevant stakeholders, including building owners, solar vendors, and installation contractors.

DG PDMA Irfan Ali Kathia said solar systems must be installed exclusively by experts approved by the Alternative Energy Development Board (AEDB). He said immediate inspection of solar systems installed on sensitive public buildings such as schools, hospitals, and government offices is required.

DG PDMA said Municipal Corporations and Building Authorities have been instructed to strictly enforce regulatory guidelines on solar installations. The awareness campaigns must be conducted through local media, mosques, community leaders, and District Information Officers.

He directed that panels must be securely, robustly, and properly sealed, use only stainless steel nuts, bolts, and spring washers to fix panels. cables must be tied using standard cable ties; wires or ordinary ropes are prohibited, inverters, batteries, and meters must be installed above ground or on elevated platforms and drainage paths must remain unobstructed, and rooftops must be kept clean.

The DG PDMA warned that substandard solar panels can lead to serious accidents, and adherence to safety guidelines is crucial to prevent both human and financial losses.