More than 200 makeshift homes were destroyed when a fire broke out in a shanty settlement in Gulistan-e-Johar Block 12 late Saturday night, reducing household belongings, several motorcycles and livestock to ashes.
According to fire brigade officials, the blaze did not result in any loss of human life. Initial findings suggest the fire was caused by an electrical short circuit, though further investigations are under way.
The fire erupted near Munawar Chowrangi between Saturday and Sunday night. Four fire tenders of the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation and three fire engines from Rescue 1122 were dispatched to the site. Due to the intensity of the blaze, additional water was supplied through KMC water bowsers and tankers.
A fire brigade spokesperson said the fire started at around 2:30am and was brought under control after a two-and-a-half-hour operation. However, water shortage delayed the cooling process, which began around 5:30am once more water was provided.
Fire officials said they were informed that electricity “kunda” connections were being removed when a short circuit occurred. The plot housed around 500 makeshift huts, of which more than 200 were completely burnt along with stored belongings.
Residents said several motorcycles and animals, including goats, sheep and cats, were burned in the fire, though all residents managed to escape. Many families said they had lived on the plot for more than 10 years, earning daily wages to support themselves. Most of the affected families belonged to Punjab and Balochistan.
Victims said they lost their lifetime savings and appealed to the Sindh government and philanthropists for assistance. Many left their homes with only the clothes they were wearing.
A fire brigade team continued operations for about three hours before concluding the response at the site.
