Rescue 1122 teams, ambulances and fire brigade rushed to the scene
Fire breaks out at garment factory in Karachi Export Processing Zone
A fire broke out at a garment factory in Karachi’s Export Processing Zone on Thursday, sending thick flames and smoke into the air and prompting a large scale emergency response.
According to a spokesperson for Rescue 1122 Sindh, the Central Command and Control centre received reports of the blaze, after which rescue teams, ambulances, and fire brigade trucks were immediately dispatched to the site.
Rescue efforts under way no casualties reported yet
Officials said that firefighting operations are currently under way, with teams working to bring the flames under control.
So far, no casualties have been confirmed, and authorities say that factory workers were safely evacuated from the building.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and it is not yet clear whether it began in a specific section of the facility or was triggered by an electrical or mechanical fault.
Authorities ask public to stay away from the area
Emergency responders have urged the public to avoid the Export Processing Zone and surrounding routes to ensure that fire brigade and rescue vehicles can move freely and operate without disruption.
Traffic diversions may be implemented around the zone if the situation continues, especially if the smoke affects nearby roads or adjoining industrial units.
Why this matters for industrial safety
The incident once again raises concerns about fire safety standards in industrial and export processing zones. Karachi, as a major industrial hub, has witnessed repeated factory fires in recent years, highlighting the importance of:
- Regular safety audits
- Functional fire alarms and extinguishers
- Clear evacuation routes and drills
- Strict enforcement of building and electrical codes
How quickly this fire is contained and how transparently its cause is investigated will be closely watched by workers, factory owners, and labour rights groups.
Authorities have said this is a developing situation, and further updates will be shared once more details about the cause, damage, and any potential injuries are confirmed.