Karachi fire linked to gas leak could burn for up to 10 days

Karachi: A fire that started in the Korangi Crossing area three days ago due to an underground gas leak remains out of control. Experts have warned against trying to extinguish the fire forcefully.

The fire began early on Saturday morning when a local construction company drilled over 1,100 feet for a tube well, accidentally releasing methane gas under high pressure. Despite ongoing efforts, the fire has not been contained.

Chief Fire Officer Humayun Ahmed confirmed that methane was escaping under pressure, making the situation very dangerous. Initially, firefighters tried to put out the fire with water, but this increased the heat. Later, sand and soil were used, but the fire kept reigniting.

A former managing director of Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) warned that the fire, which is being fueled by biogenic gas, could burn for up to 10 days. Authorities are also concerned about the presence of hydrogen sulfide, a toxic gas that can be deadly even in small amounts.

PPL's Chief Operating Officer Sikandar Memon stated that the gas was not considered dangerous, although the size of the underground deposit is still unknown. He added that water samples were being taken, and more information would be available soon.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, with experts collecting samples to assess the size of the underground gas deposits. Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) confirmed that it has no installations near the site.