No casualties reported as fire breaks out at super market in Karachi's Zamzama

A fire erupted at a private super market on Karachi's Zamzama area on Monday, but emergency teams successfully evacuated all management personnel inside the building, and no casualties have been reported so far.

Chief Fire Officer (CFO) Humayun Khan said the fire brigade received the alert at around 6am, and vehicles were immediately dispatched from the Saddar fire station. “Initially, the fire broke out in the basement, which has been extinguished. Later, isolated spots on the ground floor also caught fire, and efforts are underway to douse them,” he said.

He noted that a false ceiling contributed to the rapid spread of the fire, adding that such structures often intensify flames. He also said that heavy smoke and poor ventilation made firefighting operations difficult.

According to fire brigade officials, six fire tenders were deployed to control the fire. They added that while the blaze had largely been brought under control, dense smoke remained a major challenge.

Store management confirmed that no other employees were inside the building at the time of the fire.

Rescue officials said doors were being cut open with cutters to gain access to the basement, ensure no one was trapped, and help bring the fire fully under control. Officials added that the rescue operation could take up to two hours to complete.

Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab said multiple departments were present at the site, while representatives of the Cantonment Board also oversaw the operation. “Water bowsers, fire tenders and Rescue 1122 personnel are present to support the operation and provide medical assistance if required,” he said.

He added, “Exhausts are being used to remove the smoke… passages are being created to clear the area as quickly as possible. This area falls under the jurisdiction of the Cantonment Board and a fire safety audit had been conducted here. Our immediate target is to complete the rescue operation swiftly to minimise losses.”

He said the cause of the fire would be determined later, with investigations to begin once the blaze is fully extinguished. “Various factors will be reviewed as part of the inquiry,” he assured.

Referring to broader fire safety concerns, Wahab said, “Incidents could occur anywhere, and shortcomings and negligence in society need to be addressed.” He recalled that a judicial commission was formed after the Gul Plaza incident to ensure a transparent inquiry.

He added that deputy commissioners and other departments are conducting fire safety audits across the city. A market in Saddar had recently been sealed due to the absence of a fire safety audit. “Some tough decisions have to be made so that the public can benefit,” he said.

This is a developing story and is being updated.