Karachi fire chief refutes claims of major underground gas reserves

The fire raging near Korangi Crossing in Karachi entered its eighth day on Saturday, with no signs of active firefighting efforts.

Karachi Metropolitan Corporation's Chief Fire Officer Humayun Khan dismissed the possibility of a large underground gas reserve, suggesting instead that the fire was likely caused by a shallow gas pocket disturbed during drilling.

The blaze began on March 29 during a 1,200-foot-deep borehole excavation for water exploration. The drilling is believed to have damaged underground plates, releasing methane or biogenic gas, which then ignited.

Humayun noted the flames have reduced in intensity, but extinguishing the fire could release toxic gas, posing risks to nearby residents. As a precaution, authorities sealed the affected area and opted to let the fire burn out naturally, a process that could take up to a month.

Chemical analysis of sand and water samples is underway, with results expected after Eid holidays. Experts say the fire’s duration depends on the gas volume—small pockets may burn out in days, while larger ones might require further containment.

TPL Properties confirmed the fire was linked to a test well drill. Meanwhile, PPL and SSGC stated their infrastructure remains unaffected by the incident.