Massive Fire Engulfs Multi-Storey Building in Karachi
A significant fire that erupted in a multi-storey building in Karachi was brought under control after hours of intensive firefighting efforts, Chief Fire Officer (CFO) Humayun Khan confirmed on Tuesday.
Firefighting Operations
- Resources Deployed:
- 11 fire tenders and two snorkels were utilized.
- Rescue teams from Pakistan Navy and Rescue 1122 joined the operation.
- MA Jinnah Road Reopened:
- After being cordoned off for hours, the busy road is now open to traffic.
Incident Overview
- The fire reportedly began in a flat on the first floor of the building before spreading to upper floors.
- Residents said the delay in the arrival of firefighting and rescue teams forced them to evacuate the building and attempt to control the fire on their own.
- Evacuations Successful: Officials confirmed that everyone inside the building was safely evacuated.
Fire Containment Measures
- Breaking Glass Panels:
- Firefighters smashed glass windows to gain better access to the flames.
- Emergency Water Supply:
- An emergency was declared at the NIPA hydrant to ensure a continuous supply of water, according to a spokesperson for the Water Corporation.
- Foam Deployment:
- Fire brigade teams used foam to control the blaze.
Government Response
- Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah:
- Took immediate notice of the incident.
- Ordered a detailed report from the Karachi Commissioner.
- Directed the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) and relevant authorities to inspect high-rise buildings to ensure compliance with fire safety measures.
- Sindh Home Minister Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjhar:
- Called for additional police reinforcements to assist rescue operations.
- Stressed the importance of accountability, ordering an investigation into the fire’s cause with findings to be made public.
Recurring Fire Incidents at Rimpa Plaza
This isn’t the first fire incident at the Rimpa Plaza:
- In May last year, a fire broke out on the seventh floor, reportedly in a spare parts warehouse.
- Though the fire was controlled, the incident raised serious concerns over inadequate fire safety measures in the building.
Need for Enhanced Fire Safety
The latest fire at Rimpa Plaza highlights the pressing need for:
- Thorough Inspections: Authorities must ensure compliance with fire safety protocols in high-rise buildings.
- Improved Emergency Response: Reducing response times of firefighting and rescue teams.
- Preventive Measures: Regular fire drills and installation of updated safety equipment in vulnerable structures.
The authorities now face increased pressure to investigate the cause of this fire and implement robust measures to prevent such incidents in the future.