Maritime Minister Orders Probe into Fire at Karachi’s KICT Terminal

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has ordered a formal inquiry into a fire incident at the Karachi International Container Terminal (KICT), directing authorities to identify its cause and fix responsibility to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

An investigation committee comprising senior officers of the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) has been constituted. The committee will work in coordination with KICT operators to determine the circumstances that led to the blaze. The minister noted that KICT is a privately operated terminal, adding that ensuring safety at the facility is primarily the responsibility of its management.

Taking immediate notice of media reports, the minister instructed KPT Chairman Rear Admiral (Retd) Shahid Ahmed and other concerned officials to ensure a swift response and full utilisation of available resources. He also sought a detailed report on the incident.

The fire, which broke out at around 1:35 pm in a container near Berth No. 27 on West Wharf, was quickly reported to the KPT Central Fire Brigade. Fire tenders were dispatched immediately, and upon arrival, crews observed dense smoke spreading rapidly due to closely stacked containers.

A coordinated firefighting operation involving the Karachi Port Trust, Pakistan Navy, Karachi Shipyard & Engineering Works, and Rescue 1122 successfully contained the fire. No casualties were reported, and major damage to port infrastructure was averted.

According to the report submitted to the ministry, eight KPT fire tenders were deployed at the site, supported by four from the Pakistan Navy, one from Karachi Shipyard, and two from Rescue 1122.

Commending the rapid and professional response, Minister Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced appreciation certificates for members of the KPT firefighting team. He particularly praised GM (Engineering) KPT Rear Admiral Kashif Munir and his team for their effective leadership and coordination during the emergency.

The minister said assessments to determine the financial impact and the exact cause of the fire are still underway, and investigations will continue until all facts are established.