On August 7, 2025, a massive fire erupted at a garment factory in the Karachi Export Processing Zone (KEPZ) in Landhi. The blaze injured at least seven people and caused the building to collapse. The fire raged for over four hours, prompting a large-scale response involving 12 fire trucks and two snorkels. Fire brigade officials mobilised additional resources to tackle the flames, which continued to challenge containment efforts.
Rescue teams successfully evacuated workers from the factory’s basement and cleared adjacent buildings to prevent further incidents. Officials emphasised their commitment to using all available resources to ensure worker safety and control the fire. The scale of the blaze demanded urgent action, with responders working tirelessly to protect lives and minimise damage.
A 3rd-degree fire has erupted at a factory in Karachi’s Landhi EPZ.
16 fire tenders are battling the flames, 7 injured rescued, roof collapse reported.
Nearby gas cylinder storage raises explosion fears.#Karachi #LandhiFire #BreakingNews #factoryfire #fire pic.twitter.com/SRNzLr3h8Y
— LAFZ DIGITAL (@LafzDigital) August 7, 2025Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah took immediate notice and directed the fire brigade and rescue officials to prioritise human life. “Protection of human life should be given top priority,” he asserted. Shah also instructed the Karachi commissioner to launch an inquiry into the fire’s cause while ensuring support for the factory owners and workers. Given the large number of workers present during the fire, he stressed the importance of a thorough investigation into safety protocols.
KEPZ, as a major industrial hub, has faced scrutiny over safety standards in the past. This fire raises critical questions about compliance with fire safety regulations in high-risk environments such as garment factories. The chief minister’s ordered inquiry could prompt stricter oversight and reforms aimed at preventing similar tragedies, addressing systemic safety issues within industrial zones.
