Massive Fire Engulfs Karachi Textile Factory, Injures Eight and Destroys Building

International News: A devastating fire tore through a textile factory in the Karachi Export Processing Zone (KEPZ) in Landhi on Thursday, injuring at least eight people and causing the building to collapse. According to local media, twelve fire trucks and two snorkel vehicles rushed to the scene to tackle the flames.

Four Hours of Uncontrolled Flames

The fire started in the morning and raged for more than four hours despite intense firefighting efforts. Workers trapped in the basement were rescued, while nearby buildings were evacuated to avoid further danger.

Chief Minister Demands Urgent Rescue Efforts

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah reacted swiftly, ordering rescue teams to put human lives first. He instructed the Karachi Commissioner to launch a full investigation and to provide complete support to both the workers and the factory management.

Over 1,200 People Inside at the Time

Rescue-1122 Chief Operating Officer Abid Jalal reported that between 1,200 and 1,500 workers were inside the facility when the fire broke out. Thanks to quick evacuations, casualties were kept to a minimum.

Chemicals Fueled the Fire’s Spread

Chief Fire Officer Muhammad Humayun explained that the flames began on the first floor and quickly spread to four nearby factories. The building stored chemicals and recycled clothing, which caused the fire to intensify rapidly.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the incident, while the injured are being treated at local hospitals.