The fire that broke out in the Ghariyali building in Saddar has been brought under control and five people have been rescued safely from the spot.
Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) Chief Fire Officer Humayun Khan stated that upon receiving information about the fire on the third floor of Ghariyali Building near Empress Market, a fire unit from Saddar Fire Station was sent to the spot. . However, the fire quickly spread from the third floor to parts of the fourth and fifth floors.
In response, four additional firefighters, a bowser and a snorkeler were called to the scene, accelerating firefighting efforts with the aid of the snorkel.
After the fire was reported, a large contingent of ambulances, police and rangers also arrived at the scene. One lane of Empress Market Road was closed to traffic. KMC rescue teams managed to safely evacuate five people from the affected part of the building.
Firefighters brought the fire under control in approximately an hour and a half, after which the cooling process was completed. Fortunately, no casualties were reported in the incident.
Humayun Khan noted that the affected parts of the building housed clothing warehouses. While the extent of the financial losses has not yet been estimated, the cause of the fire is unknown.
He also highlighted that fire incidents tend to increase during the winter months. However, the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation Fire Brigade continues to perform its duties actively and efficiently.
Last week, a fire broke out on the first floor of Pak Towers in Clifton area of Karachi due to a short circuit. The fire filled the building with smoke, but fortunately no victims were reported.
Rescue teams, including police, rangers, Rescue 1122, firefighters and social assistance organizations, rushed to the scene.
Earlier, for the second time this month, a fire broke out at Rimpa Plaza on MA Jinnah Road, Karachi. Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire using four fire units and a snorkel truck. No victims or trapped people were reported.
Preliminary findings suggest an electrical short could have caused the fire, although investigations are ongoing.
Previously, a fire had broken out in warehouses, offices and shops on the fourth floor of the plaza, requiring extensive rescue efforts. Poor ventilation complicated the operation, but all occupants were evacuated safely. Sindh CM Murad Ali Shah had earlier ordered immediate action and a report on the incident.
