Karachi factory fire remains uncontrolled after five hours

KARACHI: A fire that broke out at a factory in Karachi’s SITE area remained uncontrolled even after five hours, as firefighters continued efforts to bring the blaze under control with 11 fire tenders, two snorkels and two water bowsers taking part in the operation.

According to officials, the fire initially broke out on the second floor of the factory before spreading to the third floor. The presence of large quantities of plastic granules, thread and cardboard inside the factory has added to the challenge of controlling the blaze.

Officials said two fire tenders were initially dispatched to the site after the fire was reported. However, as the intensity of the fire increased, additional firefighting vehicles were called in to assist in the operation.

The firefighting operation was continuing five hours after the fire broke out, with 11 fire tenders, two snorkels and two water bowsers engaged in efforts to extinguish the flames.

Officials said the factory staff were immediately evacuated and shifted to a safe location as soon as the fire broke out.

Firefighters continued their efforts to control the blaze and prevent it from spreading further. The fire had already extended from the second to the third floor of the factory, while a large quantity of combustible material remained inside the building.

The cause of the fire and the extent of the damage had not been provided in the information available so far.

Fire brigade officials noted that a fire had also erupted at the same location a few days ago, adding that the factory had converted the third floor into a warehouse. They further mentioned that two water bowsers are assisting the firefighting operation.

The Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation (KWSC) has declared an emergency at the NIPA and Sakhi Hassan hydrants after the fire brigade requested immediate assistance, a spokesperson for the corporation said.

On the directions of KWSC Chief Executive Officer Ahmed Ali Siddique, an emergency was also imposed at the Crush Plant hydrant.

The spokesperson stated that water tankers have immediately been dispatched to the scene.

He added that the in-charge of the hydrant cell remains in constant contact with fire brigade and rescue officials. Furthermore, the CEO’s focal person for hydrants is personally supervising the operation, and the corporation is extending full cooperation to the rescue teams.