Karachi Factory Fire Levels EPZ Unit Triggers Safety Alarms
Massive Blaze Destroys Karachi Factory, Sparks Fire Safety Concerns
A massive fire tore through a recycling factory in Karachi’s Export Processing Zone (EPZ) on Wednesday, completely reducing the structure to rubble and raising fresh concerns over fire safety in the city’s industrial zones.
Officials from the fire brigade declared it a third-degree fire — the highest level of emergency. At least 16 fire tenders and 2 water bowsers were rushed to the scene to battle the intense flames, which continued to rage for hours.
According to rescue teams, the blaze caused two major structural collapses, eventually flattening the entire building. “The first section gave in soon after the fire broke out. The second followed not long after,” said one rescue worker.
The fire initially broke out in a unit that recycles old clothes but quickly spread to nearby factories. One of the neighbouring units reportedly contains gas cylinder storage, triggering fears of a possible explosion.
So far, seven injured workers have been pulled out from the wreckage. Emergency teams say no fatalities have been reported, though the risk of further injuries remains.
“There’s still a shortage of water,” said a spokesperson from Karachi’s emergency services. “If we can’t get more soon, the fire could spread even further.” Officials are also considering using firefighting foam if the flames don’t come under control.
Rescue 1122’s Chief Operating Officer confirmed that teams are working round-the-clock. “The fire is severe, but thankfully, there’s been no loss of life,” he said. According to Rescue Officer Abid Sheikh, it could take another three to four hours to fully extinguish the fire.
EPZ Chairman A.D. Khawaja visited the site and said the fire was first reported around 10:30 AM. Initially, a single fire tender from EPZ was dispatched, but as the flames grew, reinforcements were called in.
“I’ve spoken to the Karachi Commissioner and Rescue 1122,” Khawaja said. “Every effort is being made to contain the fire and prevent it from affecting more factories.”
This incident marks the second major industrial fire in Karachi in recent weeks, putting a spotlight on the city’s weak fire safety protocols and emergency preparedness.
As fire crews continue their efforts, questions are mounting about how such fires keep happening — and whether enough is being done to prevent them.
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