KARACHI: A massive fire ravaged more than 500 makeshift huts in Karachi’s Gulistan-e-Johar area on Saturday night, leaving hundreds of families homeless.
Rescue officials said the blaze erupted in Block 12 after electric wires short-circuited and ignited nearby gas cylinders, causing a series of explosions that quickly spread through the densely packed huts. The fire engulfed the entire settlement within minutes, sending plumes of smoke across the neighborhood.
Firefighters battled the flames for nearly two hours before bringing them under control. Fortunately, no casualties were reported; however, several livestock were injured, and residents lost most of their possessions, including household goods, furniture, and motorcycles.
Authorities said the affected residents, mostly nomadic families, have been left without shelter or essential supplies. Emergency relief teams and local administration have launched rescue and rehabilitation operations to provide food, tents, and medical assistance to the displaced people.
Officials are investigating the exact cause of the fire, while the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation and provincial disaster management authorities have been directed to ensure swift aid and temporary housing for the victims.
