Rawalpindi’s commercial buildings face serious fire safety risks, with only one out of 163 buildings equipped with complete safety measures, officials said on Thursday.

According to a recent assessment, four buildings in the B-category and seven in the C-category, along with 151 in the D-category, lack basic fire safety infrastructure.

Four buildings have no automatic fire suppression system or smoke ventilation, while seven others also lack proper entry access.

A total of 151 buildings are without safety equipment, emergency exits, smoke ventilation, or automated systems.

Last year alone, the city recorded 1,712 fire incidents, resulting in four deaths, 44 injuries, and 63 minor injuries. The absence of fire safety mechanisms violates the Punjab Building Safety Regulations.

The No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for commercial construction are issued by the CTMA, while Civil Defence oversees emergency exits, and Rescue Rawalpindi monitors fire safety compliance.

Notices have now been issued to building owners failing to meet the required safety standards.

Authorities warned that without immediate action, Rawalpindi’s commercial areas would remain highly vulnerable to catastrophic fires.