KARACHI — August 7, 2025:
At least seven individuals were injured on Thursday when a massive fire engulfed a garment factory in the Landhi Export Processing Zone (EPZ), causing part of the structure to collapse, according to rescue officials. The incident occurred near Check Post 5 and prompted a large-scale emergency response.
Edhi Foundation confirmed that all injured individuals were transported to a nearby hospital via ambulances for urgent medical care. Rescue personnel retrieved the victims using emergency stairways amid a rapidly evolving situation, where thick smoke and structural instability posed significant challenges.
The blaze, which originated in one of the factory buildings, quickly spread to at least three adjoining industrial units. All affected buildings were promptly evacuated as fire brigades rushed to the scene. Six fire trucks, four ambulances, and a snorkel were deployed as part of the firefighting and rescue operation, which is still underway.
Employees Escape Through Construction Lift
Amid the chaos, several factory workers reportedly used a construction lift to escape the burning building. Rescue workers are working under extreme conditions, struggling with dense smoke, high temperatures, and fears of further collapse.
CM Orders Immediate Action, Inquiry
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah took swift notice of the fire, instructing emergency services to prioritize the safety of those on site. He directed all firefighting and rescue units to respond without delay and ordered the Karachi commissioner to launch a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the fire.
The chief minister assured affected factory owners and workers of the government’s full support, adding that all injured would receive appropriate medical treatment.
Recurring Fire Incidents in Landhi EPZ
Thursday’s fire is the latest in a series of industrial incidents in the Landhi EPZ. A similar blaze on June 8 raged for over 36 hours before it was brought under control. That fire destroyed four industrial units and injured at least five people, including firefighters. In April, another fire in the same area led to minor injuries from smoke inhalation.
The recurring nature of such fires has raised concerns about inadequate fire safety infrastructure in Karachi’s industrial zones. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of Thursday’s incident and assess structural damage to surrounding facilities.
