Karachi Landhi Factory Fire Spreads, Building Section Collapses

KARACHI: A major fire at a factory in Karachi's Landhi Export Processing Zone on Monday spread to a neighbouring industrial unit and caused part of the affected building to collapse, triggering an extended firefighting and rescue operation. Emergency teams remained deployed for hours as they worked to contain the blaze and prevent further structural damage in the densely built industrial area.

Rescue 1122 said part of the factory collapsed after being weakened by the fire. Its personnel continued rescue and firefighting operations at the scene while monitoring the damaged structure for additional hazards. Authorities said the flames had also reached an adjacent factory, increasing the scale of the emergency and forcing responders to concentrate on preventing the fire from spreading further through the industrial complex.

Emergency services dispatched firefighting and rescue teams soon after receiving information about the incident. Fire brigade vehicles and an ambulance were sent to the site, while additional personnel were positioned around the damaged factory. Edhi ambulances and volunteers also reached the area to support the emergency response and remain available in case medical assistance or evacuation became necessary.

Despite the intensity of the blaze and the partial collapse of the structure, officials said no deaths or injuries had been reported as the operation continued. Workers were evacuated from the affected premises, while access to dangerous sections of the site was restricted because of concerns about weakened walls and the possibility of further collapse. Thick smoke and the condition of the building complicated efforts to reach parts of the factory safely.

The incident has again highlighted fire-safety risks in Karachi's industrial areas, where factories often contain combustible materials and operate in tightly packed zones. Major fires can become difficult to control when flames move between adjoining buildings, while limited access for large firefighting vehicles can further complicate emergency operations. Authorities have faced growing pressure to strengthen inspections, emergency exits, alarms and firefighting systems at commercial and industrial properties.

Karachi has experienced several serious fires during 2026. In January, a devastating blaze at Gul Plaza killed more than 70 people and destroyed hundreds of businesses, prompting extensive scrutiny of fire preparedness and building-safety enforcement. Landhi's Export Processing Zone has also experienced major industrial fires, including an earlier blaze that required many hours of firefighting before emergency teams could bring it under control.

The latest Landhi incident comes as provincial and municipal authorities face renewed demands to ensure that factories and other high-risk buildings comply with safety regulations. Emergency preparedness has become a national concern after a series of deadly or potentially dangerous fires at shopping centres, hospitals and industrial facilities. The repeated incidents have intensified questions about electrical systems, evacuation routes, fire alarms, hydrants and access for emergency vehicles.

Firefighters were expected to continue cooling and inspection work after the main flames were controlled, while structural experts and relevant authorities would need to determine whether the damaged buildings remain safe. Officials are also expected to establish the cause of the fire and assess losses to the affected factories. Any findings regarding safety violations or structural weaknesses could lead to further inspections or administrative action in Karachi's industrial zones.