• Explosion at a fireworks warehouse in Karachi results in at least 6 deaths and 34 injuries.
• Initial reports suggest a short circuit may have triggered the fire.
• Authorities are investigating safety regulations and storage violations.
• Rescue operations ongoing with massive firefighting efforts.
• Traffic disruptions reported on MA Jinnah Road as a result of the incident.

At least six people have died and thirty-four others were injured following a massive explosion at a fireworks warehouse near Karachi's Taj Medical Complex on MA Jinnah Road. The tragic incident took place on Thursday afternoon, with local authorities confirming the casualties and ongoing rescue operations. Police surgeon Dr. Summaiya Syed stated that many of the injured suffered from injuries due to broken glass and debris from the explosion, which caused extensive damage in the vicinity, including to nearby buildings and vehicles, according to Dawn and AA.

The blaze was initially reported to have ignited due to a suspected short circuit, leading to a catastrophic explosion in a facility that housed highly flammable materials. Witnesses observed thick smoke billowing from the building during the incident, and firefighting efforts were complicated by the hazardous conditions, as well as the presence of explosive substances. “Due to the presence of explosive material, the fire reignited frequently,” said Hassaanul Haseeb Khan, a spokesperson for Rescue 1122, emphasizing the challenges faced by firefighters, according to Dawn and India Times.

Traffic police reported that MA Jinnah Road has been closed to facilitate rescue operations, with diversions in place for vehicles coming from Numaish. Citizens are urged to seek alternate routes by contacting the Traffic Police helpline. Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has taken notice of the situation, instructing local officials to ensure an effective response and prevent further loss of life, as detailed in statements from Dawn, India Times, and AA.

In light of recurring industrial accidents attributed to poor safety standards and negligence across Pakistan, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) has initiated an investigation into the warehouse’s operations, revealing that excessive quantities of fireworks were stored unlawfully without proper safeguards. Raja Umer Khattab, from the CTD, highlighted previous incidents involving similar facilities, further stressing the necessity of strict enforcement of safety regulations in densely populated areas, as mentioned by Dawn and India Times.