A new survey conducted by the Rawalpindi Development Authority has found dozens of buildings in the city in dangerously deteriorated condition, adding to concerns over structural safety in older parts of Rawalpindi.

According to reports, the Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation has declared 100 buildings dangerous, while the Rawalpindi Development Authority has found 33 others dilapidated, with a new survey set to start the following week. The findings point to a broader infrastructure concern in a city where many older structures were built decades ago without modern construction standards or regular structural inspections. 

Buildings flagged as dangerous typically face restrictions on occupancy until repairs are made or, in more severe cases, are marked for demolition, a process that can be complicated when residential or commercial tenants continue to occupy the space despite safety warnings. Local authorities have periodically struggled to enforce vacancy orders on dangerous buildings, particularly in dense commercial areas where relocating tenants and shop owners is logistically and financially difficult.

The upcoming survey is expected to expand the scope of inspections across the city, potentially identifying additional structures in need of urgent attention. Building safety has become an increasing focus for municipal authorities across Pakistan’s major cities following periodic incidents of structural collapse, particularly during the monsoon season when older buildings are more vulnerable to water damage and foundation issues.

For residents and business owners occupying buildings that may eventually be flagged, the survey results could carry significant practical implications, from mandatory repairs to potential displacement, underscoring the tension between public safety enforcement and the economic realities faced by those living or working in aging structures.

— Compiled by the Weekly PK Staff Desk