One Dead, 180 Rescued in Hotel Fire in Gulberg, Lahore
LAHORE: One person lost his life while at least four others were injured after a fire broke out at a private hotel in Gulberg on Saturday, prompting a large-scale rescue operation that led to the safe evacuation of more than 180 people.
According to rescue officials, the fire erupted after a gas cylinder exploded in the hotel’s basement, triggering panic and a stampede as a school event was underway inside the building at the time of the incident.
Rescue teams immediately shifted five injured individuals to a nearby hospital, where one victim later succumbed to burn injuries. The deceased was identified as Imran, an employee of the hotel.
Rescue 1122 personnel launched a coordinated firefighting and evacuation operation and successfully brought the blaze under control. Director General Rescue 1122 and Emergency Services Dr Rizwan was present at the scene and personally supervised the rescue and firefighting efforts to ensure that no one remained trapped inside the building.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif praised the professionalism and bravery of Rescue 1122 teams, crediting the modern fire hydrant system installed under the “Safe Punjab” vision for playing a crucial role in containing the fire.
In her statement, the chief minister said that a provincial minister, the chief secretary, and district administration officials were present at the site to oversee the operation. She directed authorities to continue rescue and clearance efforts until the building is fully cleared.
Maryam Nawaz Sharif also said she personally monitored the evacuation and rescue operation live through the Safe City drone system, which provided real-time visuals and assisted rescue teams during the operation.
Officials confirmed that the source of the fire has been identified and contained, while search and investigation activities are ongoing.
The chief minister further announced that strict safety audits of all commercial boilers and gas cylinders across the province would be launched, warning that facilities failing to meet safety standards would be sealed immediately.
