KARACHI: A major fire broke out at an old clothes factory in Karachi’s Landhi Export Processing Zone on Monday, Sept. 7, leaving two men and a woman in critical condition after they inhaled heavy smoke, and firefighters used multiple vehicles and rescue teams to contain the blaze.
Fire brigade officials classified the incident as a third-degree fire because of its intensity. Authorities called for additional firefighting equipment as the flames spread through the building. Seventeen Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) fire tenders, two water tankers and a snorkel were taking part in the emergency response.
Officials said the fire started on the ground floor before moving to the two floors above it. Thick smoke filled the building, making it difficult for firefighters to enter. Because of the dangerous conditions, firefighting teams operated from outside the factory while trying to prevent the flames from spreading further.
A security guard said workers left the building after smoke began coming from the factory. SSP Malir said no deaths had been reported at the scene because everyone working inside the factory had been evacuated before the fire spread.
However, three people suffered serious effects from smoke inhalation and were taken to Jinnah Hospital in a Chhipa ambulance. The factory reportedly contained a large quantity of old clothes, providing material that helped fuel the blaze. Security officials at the Landhi EPZ also took precautionary steps. Employees working at other companies in the industrial area were stopped from entering the affected premises.
Sindh Rangers personnel also reached the location after learning about the seriousness of the incident. Rangers teams joined firefighters and rescue workers in emergency, relief, and rescue efforts. A large Rangers contingent was deployed around the building to help manage traffic and protect people in the area.
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah also took notice of the incident and directed officials to ensure the safety of people at the factory. The chief minister ordered the relevant departments to use all available resources to extinguish the fire. He also requested an update from the Karachi commissioner and other concerned authorities about the situation.
