Rescue 1122 Marks Martyrs’ Day in Rawalpindi to Honor Firefighters Killed in Gakhar Plaza Tragedy
Rescue 1122 Punjab commemorated Rescue Martyrs’ Day in Rawalpindi with a solemn ceremony to honor the firefighters and emergency responders who lost their lives in the deadly Gakhar Plaza fire, renewing its pledge to strengthen public safety and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The ceremony was held at the Martyrs’ Memorial, where senior officials, rescue officers, and rescuers paid tribute to those who laid down their lives in the line of duty. Floral wreaths were laid at the memorial, a salute was presented, and special prayers were offered for the elevation of the martyrs’ ranks.
Parliamentary Secretary for Rescue 1122 Punjab Zia Ullah Shah, Director Rescue Rawalpindi Region Dr Faisal Mahmood, Director General Emergency Services Islamabad Dr Abdul Rehman, and District Emergency Officer Rawalpindi Engineer Sibghat Ullah attended the event along with a large number of rescue officials and personnel.
Speakers described the Rescue 1122 martyrs as the nation’s true heroes, stating that they sacrificed their lives to protect citizens and save property during emergencies. They recalled that December 20 is observed as Rescue Martyrs’ Day in remembrance of the tragic incident in 2008, when 13 firefighters and emergency responders were martyred while responding to a major fire.
The speakers noted that the 2008 tragedy claimed the lives of personnel from Rescue 1122 Rawalpindi, Pakistan Ordnance Factories Wah Cantt, Civil Aviation, and the Fire Brigade. They emphasized that the sacrifices of these responders continue to guide the mission of Rescue 1122 in serving the public with courage and dedication.
Reaffirming their commitment, Rescue 1122 officials said the department would continue to carry forward the mission of its martyrs by enhancing emergency response capabilities and ensuring better protection for citizens. They stressed the urgent need to improve fire safety arrangements in high-rise buildings and called for strict implementation of the Punjab Community Safety Building Regulations 2022.
The speakers also underlined the importance of preventive measures to avert fire-related disasters in the future, stating that preparedness, regulation enforcement, and public awareness are essential to prevent the loss of precious lives in emergencies.
The ceremony concluded with a renewed resolve by Rescue 1122 to honor its fallen heroes not only through remembrance, but through continued service, vigilance, and improved safety standards for the public.
Read in Urdu: ریسکیو 1122 راولپنڈی میں سانحہ گگھٹر پلازہ کے شہداء کی یاد میں ریسکیو شہداء ڈے منایا گیا
