A fire broke out at a major supermarket located in Karachi’s Zamzama commercial area early Monday morning, prompting a large-scale emergency response from city authorities.
The blaze was first reported shortly before dawn, with thick smoke seen billowing from the building as emergency services rushed to the scene. Fire brigade vehicles and rescue teams quickly cordoned off the surrounding area while efforts began to contain the fire and evacuate individuals inside the premises.
According to rescue officials, the emergency call was received at approximately 5:30 a.m., after which multiple fire tenders were dispatched to the location. The fire reportedly started in the basement of the building, where a large amount of stored merchandise and other combustible materials intensified the flames and produced dense smoke throughout the structure. Firefighters faced difficulties reaching the source of the blaze, as the smoke spread rapidly through the building’s interior and false ceiling.
Rescue personnel successfully evacuated staff members who were present inside the store at the time of the incident. Authorities confirmed that more than twenty individuals were safely brought out of the building and no casualties were reported. Ambulances and medical teams were also stationed nearby as a precaution while firefighters continued working to control the situation.
Initial reports suggest the fire may have been triggered by an electrical short circuit, possibly involving equipment installed inside the premises. However, officials have stated that a full investigation will be carried out to determine the exact cause of the incident. Questions have also been raised regarding the building’s fire safety measures, including whether the internal fire suppression system was fully operational when the blaze began.
Firefighters battled the flames for several hours before bringing the situation largely under control. Following containment of the fire, a cooling process was initiated to prevent any possibility of reignition. Traffic in the surrounding Zamzama area was temporarily disrupted as emergency vehicles remained stationed near the building and authorities maintained safety perimeters.
The store has since been closed while officials assess the structural safety of the building and evaluate the extent of damage caused by the fire. Authorities have indicated that further updates will be provided as investigations continue and safety inspections are carried out. The incident has also renewed concerns about fire safety compliance in commercial buildings across Karachi.
Sources: The Express Tribune, DAWN News, and Daily Times.
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