A major fire that broke out at a textile factory in the Rawat Industrial Estate on Monday afternoon was brought under control after a 16-hour firefighting operation, while cooling operations were underway, a Rescue 1122 spokesman said on Tuesday.
Rescue 1122 Rawalpindi teams rushed to the scene immediately after receiving information about the blaze and launched firefighting efforts. Initially, 10 emergency vehicles and more than 30 rescuers took part in the operation.
As the intensity of the fire increased, additional personnel and fire tenders were called in, while firefighters from across the district were put on alert and dispatched to the site. Overall, 21 emergency vehicles and more than 80 Rescue 1122 personnel remained engaged in the operation.
According to preliminary information, the fire spread rapidly due to the presence of a large quantity of textile material and other inflammable items inside the over eight-kanal factory.
The spokesman said Rescue firefighters, employing professional tactics, prevented the fire from spreading further. A snorkel was also deployed to extinguish flames at height.
The firefighting operation was supported by the Bahria Fire Service, Islamabad Fire Service and WASA Rawalpindi, while fire tenders and personnel were also called from neighbouring districts.
Due to the severity of the fire and its prolonged duration, the spokesman said cracks developed in the building, raising concerns about a possible collapse. Firefighting was, therefore, carried out from a safe distance.
Foam-mixed water was used continuously to douse the flames, with more than 400,000 litres of water consumed during the operation. After 13 hours of continuous efforts, the fire was brought 75 per cent under control, while complete control was achieved after 16 hours. Cooling operations were continuing.
The cause of the fire is being investigated.
District emergency officer Rawalpindi Engineer Sibghatullah urged industrial units and factory owners to ensure proper fire safety arrangements, including functional fire alarm systems, emergency exits, firefighting equipment and adequate water supply. He also stressed the need for regular inspection of electrical and gas installations and proper fire safety and emergency response training for staff to minimise loss of life and property.
According to Media Coordinator Rescue Rawalpindi Muhammad Usman Gujjar, timely response and coordinated action by Rescue 1122 teams helped prevent the fire from spreading further. He said effective inter-agency cooperation averted major losses and urged citizens to immediately contact helpline 1122 in case of any emergency.