A third-degree fire at a garments factory near Habib Chowrangi in Karachi’s SITE Area was brought under control, and Rescue 1122 said cooling work is still under way. Fire brigade officials said the fire broke out at around 11:20 pm, after which fire tenders were sent to the scene without delay.
Plastic rolls and raw material inside factory made blaze intense
Chief Fire Officer Muhammad Humayun Khan said the factory, spread over about 2,500 square yards, contained plastic rolls and a large quantity of plastic granules, which intensified the fire. He said the factory also had plastic granules used to make China shoppers.
According to rescue officials, the factory produces diapers and non-woven fabric, while plastic granules are also used in the production of PP fibre.
12 fire tenders, 23 bowsers and one snorkel used in operation
Officials said the firefighting effort initially faced difficulties, but 12 fire tenders, 23 bowsers and one snorkel took part in the operation. KMC Fire Brigade, Rescue 1122, police, Rangers and other relief agencies also participated.
Chief Fire Officer Muhammad Humayun Khan said some people were inside the factory when the fire started, but they managed to get out quickly and saved their lives. No loss of life has been reported so far.
Water Corporation put hydrants on emergency
A Water Corporation spokesperson said emergency was imposed at the Nipa and Safoora hydrants to ensure an uninterrupted water supply during firefighting. The spokesperson added that fire crews were continuously supplied water from all five Water Corporation hydrants, and additional tankers were also sent to the site. The hydrant cell staff remained in continuous contact with fire brigade and rescue officials.
Chief Fire Officer Muhammad Humayun Khan said the cause of the fire is still unknown, and the situation will become clear after the cooling process is completed.
