Fire at illegal petrol shop claims one life

Several other shops, 12 motorcycles reduced to ashes

KARACHI:

A horrific fire broke out in a two-storey building in Shah Faisal Colony on Wednesday night, killing one person and damaging several shops and vehicles. The fire occurred at an engine oil shop which also allegedly sold petrol.

The inferno also engulfed nearby shops, including a barbershop, and around a dozen motorcycles parked outside. The upper floors of the building were partially damaged, prompting the residents to escape to the rooftop, from where they were rescued by the Rescue 1122 team.

According to Rescue 1122 spokesperson, the fire erupted due to fuel kept illegally at the shop. The towering blaze was brought under control after a tough struggle of about an hour with the help of five fire brigade vehicles. Foam was also used to control the fire, and cooling and searching operations were started after the fire was extinguished.

A body was recovered from the illegal petrol shop, which was shifted to Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre by Chhipa volunteers, where he was identified as 40-year-old Sirajuddin.

According to SSP District Korangi, Tauheed Rehman Memon there was no negligence or lapse on the part of the police. Two and a half months ago, police had taken action and had sealed the shop, but the owners obtained a stay order from the court, stating that police were not authorised to take any action against the shop.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah took notice of the fire in a residential building in Shah Faisal Colony and directed the Commissioner Karachi and Deputy Commissioner Malir to immediately reach the scene and oversee relief efforts.

He directed the authorities to ensure the safety of people and their belongings, while keeping him informed of the situation.