A massive fire broke out in a factory located in Karachi’s Landhi Export Processing Zone on Thursday, triggering a partial building collapse and spreading to at least three nearby factories.
Rescue efforts are underway, with multiple people reported injured.
Fire breaks out in basement, spreads rapidly
According to Rescue 1122 and Processing Zone officials, the fire originated in the basement of one of the factories and quickly intensified. Despite the rapid arrival of more than 10 fire brigade vehicles and snorkels, the fire remains out of control.
Firefighters are struggling to douse the flames as smoke and heat continue to rise, complicating rescue and containment efforts. Officials confirmed that the entire basement of the factory has been engulfed in flames.
Factory collapse injures several workers
As the fire continued to rage, part of the fire-hit building collapsed, injuring at least five people, who were rushed to nearby hospitals. Another section of the same building also caved in later, though no additional injuries were reported at that time.
Rescue 1122 stated that all employees trapped inside have been successfully evacuated. However, there were initial reports of women among those trapped, which heightened urgency in the early rescue operations.
Nearby factories and buildings affected
The blaze has engulfed at least three surrounding factories, causing partial damage to adjacent structures. Fire brigade teams are working around the clock to prevent further spread, but smoke and structural instability remain critical concerns.
Despite the structural collapse, Rescue 1122 confirmed that no fatalities have been reported so far.
Ongoing rescue and firefighting efforts
Emergency teams are coordinating rescue operations while trying to bring the fire under control. Operational in-charge Yusra Ali and other officials confirmed that more fire brigade units are being dispatched to the site due to the severity of the blaze.
Authorities are expected to conduct an inquiry into the cause of the fire once it is fully extinguished.
According to rescue officials, the fire initially broke out in the basement of the building, which had two interconnected units, separated by a central door. First, one part of the building collapsed, followed by the collapse of the second section, they said.
The collapse of the second part led to the complete destruction of the building. At least three surrounding factories were also engulfed in flames, officials confirmed. Several people standing outside the building sustained minor injuries due to the falling debris.
The debris removal operation has not yet begun following the collapse. Rescue officials said it is too early to confirm how many people, if any, may still be trapped under the rubble.
.jpg&w=640&q=75 "Holiday announced on July 22")
.jpg&w=256&q=75 "Holiday announced on July 22")
