RAWALPINDI: A major fire that erupted at a textile factory in Rawalpindi’s Rawat industrial estate was brought under control on Tuesday after a gruelling 16-hour firefighting operation, Rescue 1122 said.
The blaze broke out on Monday evening and caused extensive damage to the factory, though no casualties were reported.
According to Rescue 1122, more than 80 firefighters and rescuers, supported by 21 emergency vehicles, worked through the night to extinguish the fire. Over 200,000 litres of water and firefighting foam were used, while additional fire tenders and personnel were called in from neighbouring districts to contain the flames.
Even after the fire was put out, crews continued cooling operations as cracks developed in the building’s structure, raising fears of a possible collapse.
Authorities said the cause of the fire could not yet be determined, as investigators were still assessing the scene. Firefighters and rescue teams remain present at the site.
Initially declared a second-degree fire, the blaze sparked panic in the surrounding area and inflicted heavy property losses. At one stage, up to 45 firefighters and 13 emergency vehicles struggled to bring the fire under control.
Fire services from Bahria Town and Islamabad, along with the Water and Sanitation Agency (Wasa) Rawalpindi, were also mobilised to assist in the operation.
Thick plumes of black smoke engulfed the industrial zone and were visible from miles away.
Earlier this month, authorities had issued notices to all high-rise buildings in Rawalpindi, directing them to implement fire safety measures within 30 days.