At least 7 injured after fire erupts at factory in Karachi's Landhi Processing Zone

Karachi (Web Desk):  A massive fire broke out at a five-storey garment factory in Karachi's Landhi Export Processing Zone(KEPZ) on Thursday,  leaving at least seven people injured,  according to local authorities.

The blaze, which erupted earlier in the day, has continued to burn for more than four hours despite the relentless efforts of firefighting teams.

Fire brigade authorities declared it a third-degree fire—signifying a high-intensity blaze—prompting an extensive emergency response.

As the flames intensified, the structure of the factory gave way and collapsed, prompting an urgent response from emergency services.

Rescue operations remained underway, with officials confirming that additional firefighting units were summoned to the scene. In total, 12 fire tenders and two snorkels have been deployed in an attempt to control the fire.

Fire brigade personnel managed to evacuate workers who were trapped in the factory’s basement. As a safety precaution, buildings adjacent to the affected site were also cleared to prevent any further casualties or damage.

Earlier, Videos from the scene showed several male and female employees resorting to using a construction lift to escape the blaze.

Clinging to the lift’s frame, they descended from the upper floors in a desperate effort to save themselves. Fortunately, many were able to get out without serious injury.

In response to the rapidly escalating situation, the district administration, fire brigade, and Rescue 1122 promptly sought emergency assistance from the Karachi Water Corporation.

According to a spokesperson for the Water Corporation, emergency measures had been implemented at the Sherpao Hydrant on the instructions of the CEO. Multiple water tankers have been immediately dispatched to the scene to support firefighting operations.

The in-charge of the hydrants cell state that he was maintaining direct communication with the fire brigade and rescue teams, while the focal person for the hydrants cell's managing director is on site personally overseeing operations.

The spokesperson further confirmed that an uninterrupted water supply is being ensured to the fire brigade, and the Water Corporation is extending full cooperation in the ongoing emergency response.

Authorities continue to battle the blaze amid significant structural damage and environmental hazards, with all relevant departments on high alert to bring the situation under control and prevent further destruction.

Meanwhile, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah took notice of the incident and directed the fire brigade and rescue services to take immediate action.

He emphasized that safeguarding human lives must be the top priority during the operation.

The Sindh CM directed the Karachi commissioner to initiate a thorough investigation into the incident and ensure that both factory workers and the owners receive necessary assistance.