ISLAMABAD — A fire broke out at the Ministry of Science and Technology building in Islamabad’s G-5 sector on Tuesday afternoon, triggering panic and an immediate emergency response.
According to initial reports, the fire started on the second floor of the multi-storey government facility around mid-afternoon. Within minutes, thick smoke was seen billowing from the windows, alarming employees and passersby in the federal capital’s highly sensitive government district.
Eyewitnesses reported a chaotic scene as staff members rushed to evacuate the building amid the growing flames and smoke. Many employees were seen coughing and covering their faces as they exited. Panic spread quickly as fire alarms blared and security personnel cleared the premises.
Four fire brigade vehicles were immediately dispatched to the scene. Teams from Rescue 1122 also arrived to assist with the evacuation process and offer medical support to those affected by smoke inhalation or minor injuries. Authorities acted swiftly to cordon off the area, preventing public access to ensure safety.
So far, no casualties have been reported, though several individuals received precautionary medical checks on-site. The cause of the fire remains unknown, and officials have yet to confirm whether it was triggered by an electrical fault or another issue.
Emergency services managed to bring the fire under control within a couple of hours. An official investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause and assess the extent of the damage to the building and its records.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding fire safety protocols in key government institutions and has prompted calls for better infrastructure checks and emergency preparedness in federal buildings.
