Karachi: A major fire that broke out at a clothing factory in the Landhi Export Processing Zone spread to a nearby factory, causing part of the building to collapse.
According to the rescue authorities, the fire has been classified as a third-degree fire, meaning it is serious and requires a large-scale emergency response.
Rescue teams are working to control the fire and prevent it from spreading to other buildings in the area.
Officials said that 16 fire tenders, water bowsers and a snorkel are taking part in the firefighting operation.
Firefighters are using the available equipment to bring the flames under control. The large number of vehicles and rescue equipment shows the seriousness of the situation.
Earlier, rescue officials said that three people became unwell after smoke filled the factory. However, all people inside the factory were safely evacuated from the building.
There were concerns about the safety of workers because of the heavy smoke and the intensity of the fire. Rescue teams worked to remove everyone from the affected factory.
Sindh Rangers personnel also joined the rescue operation.
According to a spokesperson for the Sindh Rangers, Rangers personnel reached the location immediately after learning about the incident.
The Rangers said their personnel were working alongside the fire brigade and rescue teams in emergency operations.
The spokesperson said that the first priority of the Rangers was to protect human lives and stop the fire from spreading further.
The presence of Rangers personnel also helped support the rescue and emergency teams at the scene.
The fire caused significant damage to the affected factory, with part of the building collapsing because of the intense heat and flames.
Officials are continuing efforts to control the fire. The exact cause of the fire has not yet been confirmed.
The incident has created a major emergency in the Landhi Export Processing Zone, where several factories and industrial buildings are located.
The spread of the fire to a second factory has increased concerns about the safety of nearby buildings and workers.
Firefighters are therefore working carefully to contain the flames and prevent them from reaching other factories.
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has also taken notice of the fire at the clothing factory in Landhi.
The chief minister directed the authorities to send additional fire brigade vehicles and necessary rescue equipment to the site immediately.
The instructions were issued to strengthen the emergency response and help firefighters bring the situation under control as quickly as possible.
The authorities are using fire tenders, water bowsers and other equipment to fight the flames.
Rescue workers are also monitoring the damaged building because part of the factory has already collapsed. A damaged structure can pose additional risks to firefighters and other people working at the site.
Officials will likely assess the building once the fire is fully controlled to determine the extent of the damage.
The incident highlights the importance of fire safety in industrial areas, particularly in factories where large numbers of workers may be present.
Factories need proper fire safety equipment, emergency exits and evacuation plans to protect workers during emergencies.
In this case, rescue officials said that all people were evacuated from the factory after the fire broke out.
The three people who became unwell because of smoke were also reported earlier by rescue officials. Their condition was linked to the heavy smoke inside the factory.
Emergency teams are continuing their work at the location.
The Sindh Rangers said they would continue supporting the rescue operation and assisting the fire brigade and other emergency services.
The main focus remains on protecting human lives, controlling the fire and preventing further damage to nearby buildings.
The authorities have not yet provided a final estimate of the financial losses caused by the fire.
They are expected to investigate the incident after the firefighting operation is completed.
The cause of the fire and the total extent of the damage will become clearer after a detailed assessment.
For now, firefighters and rescue teams remain at the site, working to bring the major fire under control and ensure that the area remains safe.
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