Massive fire at Karachi Port doused after engulfing over 20 containers

A massive fire at the Karachi International Container Terminal (KICT) on Kiamari Port’s West Wharf that engulfed more than 20 containers on Friday has been fully extinguished, officials confirmed with no casualties reports.

Thick plumes of smoke from the blaze were visible several kilometres away. 

Karachi Port Trust (KPT) Chairman Shahid Ahmed confirmed the fire had been completely doused, praising the coordinated efforts of KPT and Pakistan Navy fire teams, as well as Rescue 1122 and Karachi Shipyard units. He said the operation demonstrated effective cooperation among all agencies, and the professionalism of the firefighting teams was commendable.

Officials said the containers were carrying electronic items, chemicals, textiles, and batteries, which intensified the fire. Firefighting teams from the KPT, Pakistan Navy, Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) Fire Brigade, Sindh Rescue 1122, and Karachi Shipyard had rushed to the scene.

A total of 15 fire tenders were deployed, and after a strenuous operation, the blaze was brought under control. Cooling operations continued for several hours to prevent reignition.

As a precautionary measure, port authorities suspended the loading and unloading of two ships, partially affecting port operations. Officials said activities in other areas of the port continued on a limited scale, and all staff were safely evacuated.

KMC Chief Fire Officer Humayun Khan said the cause of the fire could not be determined immediately, adding that containers carrying various types of goods were affected. Water bowsers and firefighting vehicles remained engaged for several hours to contain the blaze.

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry took notice of the incident and sought a detailed report, directing the KPT chairman and relevant officials to reach the site and use all available resources to control the fire.

The extent of financial losses and the exact cause of the fire have yet to be determined, and investigations are ongoing.