EPZ factory of used clothing gutted in fire

KARACHI:

A fire that broke out at a factory in the Landhi Export Processing Zone (EPZ) intensified and spread to another nearby factory. All employees of the factory were safely evacuated.

The factory contained a large stock of second-hand clothing. Two fire tenders initially reached the scene. However, due to the intensity of the blaze, additional fire tenders and a snorkel were called in. Fire brigade personnel continued efforts to control the fire with 18 fire tenders and two snorkels.

During the rescue operation, part of the factory collapsed, while rescue officials declared the entire building unsafe.

Despite several hours of firefighting, the blaze could not be completely brought under control. Fire brigade officials said they had managed to prevent the fire from spreading further and had brought around 50 per cent of the fire under control. Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has taken notice of the fire and sought details of the incident and the extent of the damage from fire brigade officials.

Meanwhile, the K-Electric has termed the fire incident deeply tragic.

In a statement, the spokesperson of the utility said, a KE team is present at the site to support the local administration in relief and emergency response efforts.