A major fire broke out on Thursday at a factory located in Karachi’s Landhi Export Processing Zone, sparking a large-scale emergency response.
Officials from the fire brigade confirmed that the blaze has been declared a third-degree fire. At least 16 fire tenders and 2 water bowsers are actively working to extinguish the flames.
The fire, which started in one of the industrial units, has now spread to several adjoining factories.
Rescue teams reported that one of the neighbouring factories contains gas cylinder storage, raising serious concerns about the risk of explosions.
So far, seven injured workers have been rescued from inside the fire-hit factory. While, parts of the five-storey building’s roof have collapsed due to the intense heat.
Emergency services say that more water is urgently needed to control the fire, which continues to rage despite hours of effort.
The Karachi rescue authorities have warned of further damage if the situation is not contained swiftly.
This is the second major industrial fire in Karachi in recent weeks, raising questions about fire safety measures in the city’s key economic zones.