On 27 September 2025, a devastating fire tore through a four-storey building in DHA Phase 2, Karachi, leaving behind heavy destruction, tragic deaths, and renewed concerns over fire safety standards in the city. The blaze began in a tyre workshop located on the ground floor and spread rapidly to the residential floors above.
Cause of the Fire
According to initial reports, the incident was triggered by a short circuit inside the workshop. Tyres, oil, and flammable materials fueled the fire, causing it to intensify quickly. Thick smoke engulfed the upper floors, trapping residents before rescue teams arrived.
Casualties and Injuries
The fire claimed the lives of two women, identified as:
- Syeda Shahzain Afzal, aged 43
- Syeda Sabiha Khatoon, aged 70
Both victims reportedly died of suffocation while being treated at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC).
At least nine other people were rescued and shifted to nearby hospitals. Among them were Syed Afaq Ali, his wife Rafia, and their three daughters — Shanza, Savera, and Abeeha — who suffered injuries but survived.
Rescue Operations
The fire sparked a massive emergency response. Six fire tenders, assisted by teams from Rescue 1122 and the Karachi Fire Brigade, battled the flames for several hours.
Cooling operations continued late into the night as firefighters worked to ensure the blaze did not reignite. Authorities praised the quick response, but residents criticized the lack of accessible fire exits and safety measures in the building.
Property Damage
The fire caused widespread structural damage to the workshop and upper residential units. In addition, three luxury cars — a Porsche, Mercedes, and Tesla — were destroyed in the blaze. Residents lost personal belongings, furniture, and documents, adding to the emotional and financial toll.
Government Response and Inquiry
Sindh Chief Minister has ordered an immediate inquiry into the fire, directing authorities to investigate the causes and identify any negligence in safety compliance. He emphasized the need for strict enforcement of fire safety regulations in both commercial and residential buildings, particularly in densely populated areas like DHA Karachi.
The incident has reignited debate over Karachi’s lack of emergency preparedness and the urgent requirement for fire safety audits across workshops, apartments, and markets.
Growing Concerns Over Karachi’s Fire Safety
This tragedy is not an isolated case. Karachi has witnessed several deadly fires in recent years — from shopping malls to factories — often blamed on electrical faults, poor wiring, and lack of safety protocols. Experts warn that unless strict checks are implemented, similar incidents will continue to threaten lives and property.
Final Thoughts
The DHA Phase 2 fire serves as a painful reminder of the consequences of ignoring basic fire safety measures. With two lives lost, nine injured, and millions in property destroyed, the demand for accountability and stricter safety enforcement has never been stronger.
For residents of Karachi, the tragedy underscores the importance of emergency preparedness and the urgent need for authorities to ensure that commercial and residential spaces meet proper safety standards.
