Karachi factory fire remains uncontrolled after nine hours

KARACHI: A fire at a factory in Karachi’s SITE area remained uncontrolled nine hours after it broke out, as firefighters continued efforts to extinguish the blaze using 11 fire tenders, two snorkels and two water bowsers.

According to officials, the fire initially erupted on the factory’s second floor before spreading to the third floor. Large quantities of plastic granules, thread and cardboard stored inside the building have made firefighting efforts more challenging.

Officials said two fire tenders were initially sent to the site following reports of the fire. Additional vehicles were later deployed as the blaze intensified.

Factory workers were evacuated and moved to a safe location soon after the fire broke out. Firefighters continued working to contain the flames and prevent them from spreading further.

Officials also revealed that a fire had erupted at the same location a few days earlier. They said the factory’s third floor had been converted into a warehouse.

Meanwhile, the Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation (KWSC) declared an emergency at the NIPA and Sakhi Hassan hydrants following a request from the fire brigade for immediate assistance. An emergency was also imposed at the Crush Plant hydrant on the directions of KWSC Chief Executive Officer Ahmed Ali Siddique.

A KWSC spokesperson said water tankers had been dispatched to the site to support firefighting efforts. The hydrant cell’s in-charge remained in contact with fire brigade and rescue officials, while the CEO’s focal person for hydrants was personally supervising the operation.

The corporation said it was extending full cooperation to the emergency response teams. The cause of the fire and the extent of the damage had not yet been confirmed.