Karachi's Korangi fire continues to rage for fourth consecutive day

A massive fire in Karachi's Korangi area has been raging for the fourth consecutive day, with experts warning that efforts to extinguish the flames could further worsen the situation.

Despite the dangers, hundreds of residents gathered at the site on the first night of Eid, turning the hazardous scene into a social media spectacle.

Many were seen taking selfies and livestreaming the blaze, ignoring warnings from authorities.

The fire erupted early Saturday morning after a local construction company drilled over 1,100 feet for a tube well, accidentally releasing methane gas under high pressure. This led to an underground gas leak, which ignited and has since proven extremely difficult to control.

Firefighters and police have been present at the site, but efforts to douse the flames have failed. Experts caution that water or foam could spread the gas, increasing the fire’s intensity and endangering nearby residents.

Read more: Karachi: Fire breaks out at Korangi Creek gas pipeline

Former Chief Fire Officer Kazim Ali has suggested that the best course of action may be to let the fire burn out naturally within a few days. 

Meanwhile, officials are collecting water and gas samples to assess the underground deposits and risks posed to surrounding areas.

The Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) has confirmed that its installations are not near the affected site, while Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) continues to monitor the fire's impact on gas supplies.

Despite the obvious risks, police have not taken strict measures to prevent citizens from approaching the blaze, raising concerns over public safety.

With experts closely monitoring the situation, authorities are urging Karachi residents to stay away from the site until the fire is fully contained.