18 dead in Keamari after toxic discharge from nearby factories

Health dept says victims died within five to seven days after showing symptoms such as fever, shortness of breath

KARACHI:

Sindh Health department confirmed on Thursday that at least 18 people have died in the last 16 days in Karachi’s Keamari district allegedly due to toxic chemical discharge from two factories located in the area.

A statement issued by the health department said that the officials visited Ali Muhammad Goth area of Keamari district earlier today to investigate the mysterious deaths.

The deaths occurred during the period between January 1 and January 25, the health department said, adding that the victims included people of all ages.

According to officials, the victims died within five to seven days after showing symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and shortness of breath.

Also read: Keamari gas leak leaves family of ‘unknown body’ in the dark

After examination of symptomatic patients, no rashes and conjunctivitis were present, the health department officials added.

Two factories inside the village have reportedly been emitting foul smell, causing residents in the nearby areas to feel severe irritation in their throats, according to community members.

Initial investigation suggested that the cause of the deaths was some chemicals which developed interstitial lung disease in the victims.

“Medical camps for the treatment of pneumonia have also been established in the affected area. Further investigation is under way,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has taken notice of the deaths, directing the Commissioner Karachi, DG Health, and the Labour Department to conduct an inquiry into the incident and submit their report.

The Labour department has been ordered to conduct lab tests on gas samples emitted from factories.

The chief minister also expressed his heartfelt sympathies to the affected families.