Karachi factory fire: SITE Metroville garment warehouse still burning after five hours

A fire at a garment factory and warehouse in Karachi's SITE area near Metroville was still out of control on Monday evening, about five hours after it broke out, ARY News reported at 6:28pm PKT on 19 October. Workers were moved out as soon as the fire started, and no deaths or injuries had been reported by then.

What we know

Two fire tenders went first, and more were called as the blaze grew. Officials told ARY that the factory held large amounts of plastic granules, thread and cardboard, which kept feeding the flames. Fire brigade officials said the same building had a fire a few days ago and that its third floor had been turned into a warehouse.

Water for the firefighters

The Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation declared an emergency at its NIPA, Sakhi Hassan and Crush Plant hydrants on the fire brigade's request, on the orders of KWSC chief executive Ahmed Ali Siddique, and sent tankers to the site, a KWSC spokesperson said. Hydrant staff are working with the fire and rescue teams.

Why SITE fires are hard to fight

SITE is Karachi's oldest industrial estate, with garment, textile and packaging units packed close together. Stores of synthetic yarn, plastic and cardboard on upper floors let a fire spread fast and make it hard for crews to reach the seat of it, which is why snorkel ladders were needed here. Factory owners are required to keep stock away from exits and to maintain extinguishers and alarms, and a building that has already had one fire is a warning sign.

If you live or work nearby

1. Keep clear of the roads around the factory so fire tenders and water tankers can move.
2. Close windows if smoke is reaching your street; the burning plastic gives off toxic fumes.
3. Call Rescue 1122 or the fire brigade (16) for any new fire. Do not try to enter the building.

We will update this story when the fire is out and officials give the cause and the damage. For Karachi's other civic services, see our Karachi business and services directory.