RAWALPINDI: A recent survey has revealed alarming gaps in fire safety compliance across Rawalpindi, showing that out of more than 160 high rise buildings in the district, only one fully meets government approved fire safety regulations. The findings have raised serious concerns about public safety, particularly in densely populated commercial areas.

The lone compliant building, located along The Mall, is equipped with essential safety features including fire hydrants, functional emergency exits, fire alarms, detection systems and sprinkler mechanisms. It also maintains a trained in house emergency response team capable of initiating evacuation within one minute of an emergency call, setting it apart from the rest of the city’s high rise structures.

Following the deadly Gul Plaza fire in Karachi, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz ordered a comprehensive survey of high rise buildings and directed authorities to install fire hydrants and reassess sensitive locations. Relevant departments have been instructed to strictly enforce fire safety provisions and ensure immediate compliance to prevent similar tragedies.

District Emergency Officer Rescue 1122 Rawalpindi Sibghat Ullah stated that the department operates 19 fire vehicles and over 300 trained firefighters equipped with modern tools including life detection cameras and acoustic listening devices. He explained that buildings are graded from A to D based on safety standards, with non compliant structures declared unsafe.

According to officials, 127 buildings were initially issued notices for failing to meet fire safety requirements. After successive warnings, only two buildings now remain under final notice and face sealing if compliance is not achieved. Fire safety regulations require proper exit staircases, hydrants, alarms, sprinklers and regular fire drills.

The DEO also expressed concern over road closures in commercial hubs such as Bank Road and Raja Bazaar, warning that locked gates could obstruct emergency access. He urged authorities to ensure keys remain available at all times. Despite surveys and notices, officials admitted that encroachments and blocked exits remain widespread, highlighting the urgent need for enforcement to protect lives.