Karachi — Chaos gripped the New Karachi Industrial Area on Monday after a fire-ravaged garment factory suddenly collapsed, leaving at least seven people injured, including six firefighters and a television cameraman. Rescue officials fear more workers may still be trapped beneath the rubble.
Witnesses reported hearing a powerful explosion moments before the three-storey Al-Zeeb Factory, located in Sector 8A, came crashing down. The blast triggered panic in the neighborhood, as thick smoke and debris engulfed the area.
The fire, which broke out around 7:00am on the ground floor, quickly spread through the building. Initially, two fire engines were dispatched to the site, but as the inferno intensified, reinforcements were called in. By midday, 15 fire tenders and snorkels were engaged in the operation.
One firefighter had already been injured earlier during the initial response, while six others sustained injuries during the collapse. A cameraman covering the incident was also hurt. All injured have been shifted to nearby hospitals, where officials say they are receiving treatment.
Fire brigade teams are battling the flames using both water and foam, while simultaneously conducting search-and-rescue efforts to locate anyone trapped. Officials admitted the operation remains highly dangerous due to the instability of the remaining structure.
Authorities are maintaining a close watch on the situation, and further updates are expected as firefighters continue to douse the blaze and comb through the debris.
