Massive Fire at Karachi’s Millennium Mall Leaves Hundreds of Shops Destroyed
Over 500 shops destroyed, no injuries reported
A massive fire broke out early Wednesday at Millennium Mall situated on Karachi’s Rashid Minhas Road, resulting in the destruction of over 500 shops and causing significant financial losses.
The blaze, which began around 4:05 am, was nearly extinguished after more than four hours of intense firefighting efforts by rescue teams and local authorities.
As of Wednesday afternoon, cooling operations were still underway, with firefighters meticulously searching each shop to extinguish lingering flames.
Rescue 1122 officials received information about the fire at approximately 4:05 am and arrived at the scene within 15 minutes.
According to a security guard, the fire started due to a short circuit in the surveillance system of a control room on the mall’s third floor, triggering a minor explosion.
The flames quickly spread to the roof, where chillers and boilers were stored, further intensifying the blaze. Chemicals and unsafe storage conditions on upper floors contributed to the fire’s rapid escalation.
A total of 11 to 12 fire engines, supported by two snorkels and several ambulances, battled the flames for several hours.
As reported, the operation was hampered by a shortage of water and the building’s lack of proper fire exits and firefighting systems. The mall had only one entry and exit route, complicating evacuation and firefighting efforts.
The third floor was completely destroyed, while the first and second floors suffered partial damage. Each floor housed more than 150 shops, with estimates of up to 500-600 shops severely affected.
Flames reached the windows of the adjacent Saima Mall and Residency, prompting the safe evacuation of residents. No injuries were reported, and the residential complex remained unharmed.
Initial investigations indicate that the mall’s firefighting system was inactive, and there was a lack of compliance with fire safety regulations. These issues echo longstanding warnings from city planners and engineers, who noted in late 2023 that up to 90% of Karachi’s buildings lack adequate fire prevention and firefighting systems.
