Islamabad ascends in global safety ranks, outshining major capitals

Islamabad:Islamabad has emerged as a beacon of safety on the global stage, securing a coveted position among the top 100 safest cities worldwide. The latest report by Numbeo, a globally recognized platform for crime and quality of life data, places the Pakistani capital at an impressive 93rd rank out of 380 cities, underscoring its superior safety index compared to numerous major global capitals.

Islamabad's remarkable standing in the World Safety Index, boasting a score of 67.9, sees it confidently outpace metropolises such as London (ranked 270th with a safety index of 45.8), the romantic avenues of Paris (303rd, 41.9), and the vibrant streets of Berlin (187th, 55.3). Even regional counterparts like Lahore (130th, 63.1) and global hubs like Moscow (118th, 64.6), Sydney, Toronto, and Barcelona find themselves positioned lower in the safety rankings. This achievement builds upon Islamabad’s prior recognition by the United Nations, which designated it a "family station" for its staff, further solidifying its reputation as a secure environment.

This notable accomplishment is attributed to the proactive and strategic leadership of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, under whose dynamic guidance the Islamabad Police have demonstrably curbed crime rates throughout 2024 and 2025. According to the Islamabad Police spokesperson, the current year has witnessed a significant 20% decrease in overall crime compared to the previous year, a testament to the efficacy of their policing strategies and the unwavering dedication of their officers and personnel.

A key element in this success has been the relentless crackdown on illicit activities. Following the IGP's directives, a vigorous campaign targeted drug peddlers, liquor sellers, and their facilitators, yielding tangible results. In 2025, incidents of street robbery plummeted by an impressive 19%, while theft and burglary saw substantial reductions of 12% and 74% respectively. Furthermore, vehicle and motorcycle theft decreased by 22%, and even the gravest of crimes, murder, witnessed a notable 17% decline. Overall, a remarkable 600 fewer crimes were reported in Islamabad in 2025 compared to the preceding year, painting a compelling picture of enhanced safety and security for its residents.

Beyond reactive measures, the Islamabad Police, under IGP Rizvi's vision, have also prioritized proactive community engagement. The launch of the special awareness movement "Nasha Ab Nahe" (No More Drugs) exemplifies this approach. Senior police officers actively engaged with students in educational institutions, imparting crucial knowledge about the detrimental effects of narcotics on individuals and society, particularly the youth. This initiative was complemented by large-scale operations targeting drug dealers, leading to numerous arrests and significant seizures of illegal substances.

In a parallel effort to further bolster safety, a dedicated crackdown was launched to rid the federal capital of illegal weapons. Individuals involved in the unlawful possession of firearms were apprehended, and illegal weapons and ammunition were recovered, with appropriate legal action initiated.

Moreover, the Islamabad Police have consistently demonstrated their capacity to ensure the safety and security of high-profile individuals and significant events. In 2025, they provided robust security arrangements for national and international VVIPs and VIPs. During major events such as the Champions Trophy, Pakistan Super League, and other key gatherings, the Islamabad Police meticulously ensured comprehensive security for foreign delegates, diplomats, and the general citizenry.

Islamabad’s ascent in the global safety rankings is not merely a statistical achievement; it reflects the unwavering commitment of its law enforcement agencies and the collective efforts towards creating a secure and thriving environment for all who call this capital city home. This recognition serves as a powerful testament to Islamabad's growing stature as a safe haven on the international stage.