A fire-damaged garment factory in Karachi’s New Karachi Industrial Area collapsed after a massive blaze, injuring six firefighters and a private TV cameraman, while rescue workers are feared to be trapped under the debris. A loud explosion was heard at the moment of the collapse, causing panic in the area.

According to sources, the fire broke out around 7:00am on the ground floor of the three-storey Al-Zeeb Factory, located in Sector 8A.

Initially, two fire brigade vehicles were dispatched, but the number was later increased as the blaze intensified. Currently, 15 fire tenders and snorkels are engaged in the firefighting operation.

One firefighter was also injured earlier during the initial firefighting efforts.

Fire brigade officials said that efforts are underway to control the flames using both water and foam, while search and rescue operations continue amid fears that more personnel may be trapped under the collapsed structure.

Authorities are monitoring the situation closely, and further updates are expected as the operation progresses.