ISLAMABAD: A massive fire that erupted early Sunday at a factory in Karachi’s Landhi industrial area continues to rage, leaving five individuals injured and rescue operations stretched into their second day.
According to Rescue 1122 spokesperson Hassan Khan, the blaze began in the Export Processing Zone at approximately 4:31am and has since caused part of the factory structure to collapse.
The injured — identified as Aslam (45), Hamza (30), Ayaz (20), Sajid Mahmood (43), and Mohsin (53) — were immediately transported to Civil Hospital for treatment.
Despite ongoing efforts, the fire remains uncontrolled more than 17 hours later.
Fire Spreads Rapidly Amid Combustible Materials
Abid Jalaluddin Sheikh, Chief Operating Officer of Rescue 1122 Sindh, confirmed that the fire spread quickly due to the high presence of combustible materials.
The flames have engulfed two adjacent factories, prompting an extensive emergency response.
Twelve fire trucks, two snorkels, and ambulances from Rescue 1122 and Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) were deployed to the scene.
The operation is facing major challenges due to thick smoke, insufficient water supply, and the sheer scale of the blaze.
Fire Safety Negligence Remains a Recurring Hazard
Fire incidents like this have become disturbingly common in Karachi, largely due to poor enforcement of safety regulations.
In February, 30 shops were destroyed in a Clifton commercial plaza fire, where over a dozen fire tenders took hours to contain the situation.
A KMC audit revealed that out of 265 buildings inspected, none held valid fire safety or no-objection certificates.
Most lacked basic fire alarms, smoke detectors, or operational firefighting equipment, raising concerns about widespread negligence in fire preparedness.
Rescue teams continue to battle the flames in Landhi, urging the public to report emergencies promptly at 1122 as the situation remains volatile.
