Firefighters hailed as Rescue 1122 marks Int'l Firefighters Day

LAHORE, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 5th May, 2026) Punjab Emergency Service (Rescue 1122), marked International Firefighters’ Day across Punjab, paying tribute to the sacrifices of firefighters while reiterating strict enforcement of fire safety measures in commercial buildings.

Provincial Minister for Emergency Services Khawaja Salman Rafique lauded firefighters as “real heroes” who risk their lives to save human lives and valuable property. He said no one would be allowed to violate the law, adding that full implementation of fire safety SOPs in commercial buildings would be ensured and strict action taken against violators.

The main ceremony was held at Rescue Headquarters Thokar, where participants observed a one-minute silence and offered prayers for martyred firefighters. Parliamentary Secretary Ziaullah Shah and Secretary Emergency Services Dr Rizwan Naseer, along with senior rescue officials, attended the event.

Addressing the ceremony, Dr Rizwan said Rescue 1122 had responded to over 288,000 fire emergencies so far, saving properties worth more than Rs786 billion, highlighting the professionalism and dedication of rescuers.

Speakers paid tribute to martyred rescuers and appreciated their services during major emergencies, including flood rescue operations, where timely evacuations saved countless lives. They emphasised the need for strict compliance with building safety regulations, installation of emergency exits, fire hydrants, and other preventive measures in high-rise buildings and industrial units.

At the end of the ceremony, top-performing firefighters of 2025 were awarded performance certificates, cash prizes and shields. At the provincial level, Qaiser Mehmood of Gujrat and Yasir Rehman of Lahore were declared best firefighters, while divisional award winners from across Punjab were also honoured.