A massive fire erupted at a cosmetics factory in Karachi’s Landhi Export Processing Zone at 4:50 AM, spreading rapidly to three adjacent factories and burning for over 28 hours.
According to officials from Rescue 1122, the fire, fueled by chemicals and textiles, combined with strong winds, destroyed one factory, damaged three others, and rendered several buildings structurally unsafe.
Rescue 1122 and Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) deployed over 20 fire tenders, two snorkels, and a water bowser, but dense smoke and water shortages hindered efforts. Five firefighters—Aslam (45), Hamza (30), Ayaz (20), Sajid Mahmood (43), and Mohsin (53)—were injured when a building section collapsed, with one in critical condition at Civil Hospital, per Dawn. The fire, classified as “third-degree,” remains unextinguished, with the cause still under investigation.
Visited Export Processing Zone with Deputy Mayor & DC Malir. KMC fire team is present on ground with 14 fire tenders and 3 snorkels being present on site. Adequate supply of water is also being ensured through water board. No loss of life or injury has been reported yet.… pic.twitter.com/bbn0xbNUIM
— Murtaza Wahab Siddiqui (@murtazawahab1) June 8, 2025Karachi’s industrial fires are frequent due to inadequate safety measures. A February 2025 fire in Clifton gutted 30 shops, and a May 2025 garment factory blaze near Murtaza Chowrangi caused millions in losses, per Fire Safety Journal. A 2024 KMC audit found 97% of 265 commercial buildings lacked fire safety certifications, with 155 missing alarms and 200 without proper equipment, highlighting the need for stricter regulations.
Authorities are investigating the blaze’s financial toll and urge residents to avoid the area. Rescue 1122 continues salvage efforts, with local coordination to prevent further damage.
