As the monsoon season looms, the Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation, District Council, and Evacuee Trust Property Board have issued red notices to the occupants of 265 dangerously dilapidated multi-storey buildings, directing immediate evacuation and reconstruction within 30 days.
These aging structures, many of which date back to the British era and are between 80 to 120 years old, are primarily located in Rawalpindi’s old quarters including Bhabra Bazaar, Raja Bazaar, Moti Bazaar, and Saddar, among others. Some are also situated in suburban areas like the vicinity of Lal Haveli. Authorities have declared them unsafe following a recent survey and warned of strict legal action if the evacuation orders are ignored.
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Despite the danger, many low-income families continue to reside in these buildings due to minimal rents, with up to eight families often living in small three-storey houses. Some properties are owned by the Evacuee Trust Property Board and include commercial shops, markets, and residential units. Several tenants have challenged the notices in court, complicating enforcement.
Officials have stated that if these buildings are not vacated by May 15, operations will begin to seal them. In case of any accidents during the monsoon due to non-compliance, tenants may face legal repercussions. The city has historically suffered casualties and property loss from building collapses during heavy rains.
