A massive fire that erupted early Friday morning at a factory located in the Landhi Export Processing Zone in Karachi remains uncontrolled hours later, with dozens of firefighters still battling the intense blaze. The fire, which reportedly broke out around 5 AM, has turned into a large-scale industrial emergency as dangerous chemical explosions continue to hamper firefighting efforts.
Factory Fire Turns Into Major Emergency
According to fire brigade officials, the blaze broke out in a cosmetics and textile dyeing factory, which is believed to have stored large quantities of flammable chemicals. As the flames spread rapidly through the premises, chemical drums began to explode intermittently, causing further hazards and delays in firefighting operations.
The explosions have been loud and forceful enough to cause sections of the factory’s structure to collapse, putting the lives of first responders at risk.
Injuries Reported Among Firefighters
Tragically, the incident has already resulted in injuries. At least five firefighters sustained injuries when a portion of the burning factory’s structure collapsed on them during the operation. They were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where one firefighter remains in critical condition, according to rescue sources.
The bravery and dedication of Karachi’s firefighting personnel have once again come into focus, with teams risking their lives to prevent further disaster and save nearby properties from the spreading flames.
Firefighting Efforts in Full Swing
More than 20 fire brigade vehicles, including snorkels and water bowsers, have been dispatched to the site. Authorities have called in additional resources from across the city as the fire continues to resist containment. Thick black smoke can be seen billowing from the factory, covering the surrounding industrial zone and raising health concerns for workers in nearby factories.
According to fire department spokespersons, emergency responders are also facing challenges due to the limited water supply, flammable materials inside the factory, and periodic chemical explosions that make entering the site extremely dangerous.
Cause of Fire Still Unknown
At this point, the cause of the fire remains undetermined. Officials have stated that it’s too early to speculate, but a detailed investigation will be launched once the fire is completely extinguished and the area is safe to inspect.
Witnesses and factory workers who were nearby at the time of the blaze report hearing a loud bang before flames began to engulf the building. Some believe that the initial explosion may have occurred in a chemical storage area, but these claims have yet to be verified by authorities.
Surrounding Areas at Risk
The Landhi Export Processing Zone houses numerous factories and industrial units, raising fears that the fire could spread if not contained soon. Nearby factories have been evacuated, and law enforcement officials have cordoned off the area to ensure public safety.
Emergency medical teams and ambulances remain on standby as the risk of further injuries or casualties cannot be ruled out. Authorities have urged residents and industrial workers in adjacent areas to stay away from the site and allow emergency crews to work without disruption.
Political and Public Reaction
The incident has sparked a wave of concern on social media and among political leaders. Calls for improved industrial safety regulations, stricter fire compliance checks, and better emergency preparedness are gaining momentum as such incidents continue to occur in Karachi’s industrial zones.
Several netizens expressed their solidarity with the injured firefighters, praising them as heroes who selflessly put their lives on the line. Others criticized the lack of adequate safety protocols in factories, especially those dealing with flammable chemicals.
Investigations and Next Steps
Once the fire is under control, a formal investigation will be launched to determine the exact cause and identify any lapses in safety standards or negligence by factory management. It is expected that the Sindh government and fire safety authorities will issue an official statement in the coming hours.
The fire at the Landhi Export Processing Zone serves as a grim reminder of the critical importance of industrial safety and disaster preparedness. As brave firefighters continue to battle the raging inferno, the incident raises urgent questions about factory safety measures and the readiness of Karachi’s emergency response systems.
With one firefighter fighting for his life and a factory reduced to rubble, Karachi watches and waits—hoping that the flames are soon extinguished and no more lives are put in jeopardy.
