On June 8, 2025, a massive fire erupted in a factory in Karachi’s Landhi Export Processing Zone, spreading to two neighbouring factories and testing the city’s firefighting capabilities.
According to officials, Rescue 1122 Sindh, alongside the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC), is working tirelessly to contain the blaze, which started at 4:31 AM.
Abid Jalaluddin Sheikh, chief operating officer at Rescue 1122 Sindh, reported that the fire, fueled by combustible materials, spread rapidly. “Our Fire and Rescue team responded immediately,” as Dawn reported. Twelve fire trucks, two snorkels, and two ambulances are deployed, but thick smoke and a water shortage complicate efforts.
Fire breaks out in factory in Landhi Export Processing Zone#Karachi #Landhi #Fire #Abbtakk
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— AbbTakk (@AbbTakk) June 8, 2025“Firefighting operations are in full swing,” Sheikh said, emphasising that Rescue 1122 uses all available resources to reduce the fire’s intensity. Citizens are urged to report emergencies to 1122. No casualties have been reported, but the situation remains critical.
Fires are a recurring issue in Karachi due to inadequate safety measures. A February 2025 fire in Clifton gutted 30 shops, and four people, including a firefighter, were affected by smoke inhalation. A 2024 KMC report to the Sindh High Court revealed alarming deficiencies: Of 265 commercial buildings audited, none had fire safety certificates. Over 155 lacked fire alarms, and 200 had inadequate firefighting equipment.
These systemic issues highlight the need for stricter regulations and enforcement to protect lives and property in Pakistan’s largest city.
The Landhi fire underscores Karachi’s vulnerability to industrial accidents. Local authorities coordinate with Rescue 1122 to manage the crisis; residents are advised to avoid the area.
