KARACHI: A massive fire broke out at a garment factory in the Karachi Export Processing Zone (KEPZ), Landhi, on Thursday, injuring at least seven people and causing the building to collapse, according to officials.
Despite over four hours of firefighting, the blaze continued to rage, prompting the deployment of 12 fire tenders and two snorkels. Fire brigade officials reported that the fire erupted on the first floor and quickly spread, engulfing four nearby factories. The presence of chemicals and second-hand clothing intensified the flames.
Rescue operations began immediately, with workers from the basement safely evacuated. Adjacent buildings were also cleared to prevent further casualties. Rescue-1122 COO Dr Abid Jilal said around 1,200 to 1,500 people were present in the factory at the time of the incident.
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah took notice of the fire, directing rescue teams to prioritize human safety and ordering an inquiry into the cause. He also called for support for the factory’s owners and workers.
Chief Fire Officer Muhammad Humayun stated that while the fire has been somewhat contained, removing the building’s debris may take up to three or four days. He noted that surveys had been planned, but necessary safety forms had not been returned by the factories.
Karachi continues to witness frequent fire incidents, primarily due to inadequate fire safety compliance in industrial buildings. A similar fire last June left five firefighters injured in the same industrial zone.
