Containers of chemicals, textiles and batteries catch fire; no injuries reported
Firefighters battle a fire at Karachi Port’s West Wharf terminal on January 16, 2026. Photo: Express
A massive fire at the Karachi International Container Terminal (KICT) on Kiamari Port’s West Wharf, which engulfed more than 20 containers on Friday, has been fully extinguished, officials confirmed. Thick plumes of smoke from the fire were visible several kilometers away. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Officials said the containers were carrying electronic items, chemicals, textiles and batteries, fueling the fire. Firefighting teams from Karachi Port Trust (KPT), Pakistan Navy, Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) Fire Brigade, Sindh Rescue 1122 and Karachi Shipyard rushed to the spot.
A total of 15 firefighters were called in and after hard work the fire was brought under control. Cooling operations continued for several hours to prevent re-ignition.
As a precautionary measure, port authorities suspended loading and unloading of two ships, partially affecting port operations. Officials said activities in other areas of the port continued on a limited basis and all personnel were safely evacuated.
KMC Chief Brand Officer Humayun Khan said the cause of the fire could not be ascertained immediately, adding that containers of different types of goods were affected. Water bowsers and fire engines remained engaged for several hours to contain the fire.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry took notice of the incident and sought a detailed report directing the KPT chairman and relevant officials to reach the spot and use all available resources to control the fire.
KPT Chairman Shahid Ahmed confirmed that the fire had been completely extinguished and praised the coordinated efforts of KPT and Pakistan Navy fire teams as well as Rescue 1122 and Karachi Shipyard units. He said the operation showed effective cooperation between all agencies and the professionalism of the firefighting teams was commendable.
The extent of economic losses and the exact cause of the fire are yet to be determined and investigations are ongoing.
