Massive blaze engulfs textile factory

No casualties reported; authorities investigate cause

RAWALPINDI:

A massive fire erupted on Monday at a textile factory and warehouse producing cloth and polyester quilts in the Rawat Industrial Estate, prompting authorities to call in fire brigades from Islamabad, WASA and other emergency services due to the intensity of the blaze. A firefighting operation was ongoing under the supervision of Rescue 1122 until the filing of this report.

According to Rescue 1122 officials, the fire broke out suddenly around 4pm at the factory in Rawat Industrial Estate. Upon receiving the alert, Rescue 1122 Rawalpindi dispatched 10 emergency vehicles, including fire tenders, along with more than 30 rescuers to the scene. However, due to the highly flammable material stored inside the factory and warehouse, the fire intensified, leading to additional vehicles and staff being called in from across the city, as well as assistance from Islamabad, WASA and Bahria Town fire brigades.

A Rescue 1122 spokesperson said the cause of the fire has not yet been determined. Given the scale of the blaze, all district firefighting resources were mobilized. District Emergency Officer Sibghatullah was personally supervising the operation, with 13 emergency vehicles and over 45 rescue personnel engaged in firefighting efforts.

WASA Managing Director Muhammad Saleem stated that all available WASA resources were being utilised, including 15 WASA and 10 private water tankers, ensuring uninterrupted water supply in coordination with rescue agencies.

Due to the severe emergency situation, Rawalpindi police officials were also present at the site. Rawat SHO Inspector Zahid Zahoor told The Express Tribune that the factory and warehouse span approximately four kanals and consist of a basement and three floors. Nearly three kanals of warehouse space contained a large stock of imported polyester quilts, prayer mats and other goods, while manufacturing was also carried out at the facility.