KARACHI – August 7, 2025
A devastating fire erupted at a garment factory in Karachi’s Landhi Export Processing Zone on Thursday, leading to the partial collapse of a five-storey building and leaving at least seven people injured.
According to eyewitnesses and rescue officials, the fire broke out in the early hours and quickly intensified, consuming the entire structure within a short span. Intermittent explosions were heard from inside the facility, adding to the panic as thick black smoke billowed into the sky.
Firefighters rushed to the scene and declared it a third-degree blaze, one of the most severe classifications. At least 16 fire tenders and two water bowsers were deployed to douse the flames, but efforts were hampered by the building’s structural failure, as parts of the roof began to give way.
Footage from the scene has since gone viral on social media, showing harrowing moments as male and female factory workers desperately attempted to escape. With no clear emergency exits in sight, many resorted to using a construction lift to get out — clinging onto it as it descended dangerously along the side of the burning building.
Rescue teams confirmed that seven employees sustained injuries during the escape, though fortunately, no fatalities have been reported so far. The injured were shifted to nearby hospitals where they are currently under treatment.
The incident has sparked serious concerns about workplace safety protocols in Karachi’s industrial zones. In particular, questions are being raised about the absence of adequate evacuation plans and emergency infrastructure in multi-storey industrial facilities, especially those dealing with flammable materials.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire and the factory’s compliance with fire safety regulations. Meanwhile, labour rights activists and citizens alike are demanding accountability and stricter enforcement of safety measures to prevent such near-catastrophes in the future.
