A massive fire near the Korangi Oil Refinery in Karachi has intensified, forcing authorities to halt firefighting operations temporarily.
According to rescue officials, despite overnight efforts by 22 fire tenders, the blaze remains uncontrolled. The fire reportedly erupted last night during excavation work, rapidly spreading due to the presence of flammable materials in the area.
A Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) official stated that the fire is expected to subside on its own as gas levels decrease. However, any forced attempt to extinguish the fire could pose a threat to surrounding areas.
Emergency teams, including fire brigade units, Rescue 1122, police, Rangers, and other relevant officials, are present at the site, closely monitoring the situation.
Authorities have urged residents in the vicinity to stay alert and avoid unnecessary movement near the affected area. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
According to fire brigade officials, the blaze, possibly caused by a gas leak, has been classified as a third-degree fire. Due to its intensity, foam is being used in firefighting efforts, and additional fire brigade units from across the city have been called in.
Fire Officer: ‘Cause of Fire Remains Mysterious’
Fire Officer Muhammad Zafar described the situation as puzzling, stating that it is unclear which pipeline is responsible for the fire. He further explained that when water is sprayed on the flames, it is being repelled by the heat. The Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) team has arrived at the site to assess the situation.
Zafar added that the fire is emerging from a pit, which needs to be covered with soil to contain the flames. He suggested that a dumper truck or a helicopter should be used to drop soil over the burning area.
In a statement, SSGC clarified that the company has no installations in the affected area. "Our technical teams immediately reached the site and confirmed that there is no SSGC pipeline in the vicinity of the fire," the spokesperson said.
Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori has directed Karachi Commissioner Syed Hassan Naqvi to arrange for a helicopter to assist in extinguishing the fire.
Governor Tessori also spoke with the Chief Fire Officer and engineers present at the site, assuring them that he would coordinate with the relevant authorities for helicopter deployment. He emphasized that the fire brigade staff must be provided with all necessary resources to control the fire as soon as possible.
