Fire breaks out at cardboard factory in Nazimabad No. 4, rescue operations underway

WEB DESK: A fire broke out at a cardboard factory in Nazimabad No. 4 on Saturday, prompting a coordinated response from fire and rescue services. Four fire brigade vehicles were dispatched to the site and remained engaged in controlling the blaze.

All factory workers were safely evacuated, and the Water Corporation was requested for immediate assistance. Acting on instructions from CEO Ahmed Ali Siddiqui, an emergency was declared at the Sakhi Hassan hydrant, and water tankers were dispatched promptly to support firefighting efforts.

A spokesperson for the Water Corporation confirmed that its teams are actively cooperating with fire brigade and rescue agencies to contain the fire. The supply of water via tankers will continue until the fire is fully controlled.

Authorities emphasised that all necessary measures are being taken to prevent further damage and ensure the safety of workers and nearby areas.

Gul Plaza fire

A major shopping plaza in Karachi, Gul Plaza also came under fire on the night of January 17. At least 71 bodies have been identified, with many still missing. Officials inspected the ground floor, interior areas, and fire-damaged structures while rescue operations continued, though no additional remains were found overnight.

Technical and investigative teams, including engineers from NED University and the Pakistan Engineering Council, visited Gul Plaza on Saturday to assess damage and ongoing rescue operations, eight days after the January 17 tragedy.Access to the basement remains difficult. Cash and valuables recovered during the search were handed over to authorities. Teams are working to evaluate structural safety, guide rescue efforts, and support future legal proceedings.