Rawat Factory Fire Brought Under Control After 16 Hours
News Desk
Rawalpindi: A major fire that broke out at a factory in the Rawat Industrial Area near Rawalpindi was brought under control after more than 16 hours of intense firefighting, while cooling operations were continuing on Tuesday, rescue officials said.
According to rescue authorities, the blaze erupted at an industrial unit in Rawat, prompting an immediate emergency response.
Firefighters launched a large-scale operation, deploying up to 19 fire tenders to contain the flames. As the fire intensified, additional fire brigade vehicles were called in to assist.
Rescue officials said emergency crews used water mixed with foam to suppress the fire, which was fueled by the presence of chemicals and other flammable materials inside the factory, making the operation particularly challenging.
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Officials confirmed that the fire had been controlled, and cooling activities were underway to prevent any re-ignition. No casualties were reported, while the cause of the fire remains unknown.
Authorities warned that the prolonged blaze had weakened the structure of the factory, raising fears of a possible collapse. As a precautionary measure, access to the immediate area was restricted.
Deputy Commissioner Rawalpindi said emergency teams were dispatched promptly after receiving reports of the incident, a move that helped prevent any loss of life. He added that an investigation would be launched to determine the cause of the fire once the situation was fully stabilized.
The Rawat incident comes amid growing concern over fire safety standards across Pakistan’s major cities, particularly Karachi, where a series of recent fires has exposed persistent gaps in safety measures and emergency preparedness.
According to figures cited by The News, Karachi reported 225 fire incidents in January alone, resulting in widespread damage, injuries and loss of life. The trend continued into February, with more than 20 fire incidents reported in the first five days of the month. On a single day last Thursday, fires were reported at six different locations across the city, injuring two animals.
Memories of the deadly Gul Plaza fire remain fresh, where a massive blaze on January 17 claimed 79 lives, including women and children, and injured at least 22 others, according to official figures.
