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American Experts to Assist in Containing Korangi Creek Fire as Blaze Rages On
Massive fire near Korangi Creek oil refinery still raging. US firm Cudd Well Control called in as experts explore borehole cementing, new well drilling. Sindh govt in crisis mode.
ND
by News Desk
2025-04-14
American Experts to Assist in Containing Korangi Creek Fire as Blaze Rages On

The Sindh government has enlisted the help of American specialists to extinguish the massive fire that erupted during drilling operations near an oil refinery in Korangi Creek on March 28. According to a statement by Sindh Chief Secretary's spokesperson Farhat Imtiaz Janwari, the Ministry of Petroleum has engaged Cudd Well Control, a renowned U.S.-based firefighting and well control company, to support ongoing efforts.

The fire, which broke out during the excavation for a housing project, is believed to have been triggered by a dangerous concentration of chemicals exceeding permissible safety limits. As the situation worsens, the borehole has expanded due to the continued release of gas, while hot water continues to leak, further complicating containment efforts.

In response, a team comprising drilling, completion, and safety experts from Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) and United Energy Pakistan Limited (UEPL) has inspected the site. However, their observations suggest that the fire's intensity has not subsided and the threat remains critical.

“The technical experts are currently working on a plan to fill the borehole with cement,” Janwari explained. “If required, a new well may be drilled to reach the source of the gas, but that will depend on the recommendations of the expert committee.”

Modern equipment is also being procured to measure the gas quantity and temperature accurately, which will aid in shaping the future course of action. The Sindh government remains in close coordination with all relevant agencies to address the situation promptly and effectively.

The federal government had earlier constituted a special technical committee to investigate the root causes and overall impact of the fire, ensuring a scientific and comprehensive approach.

This incident is not isolated. Just last week, another devastating fire broke out in Karachi’s Landhi Industrial Area, engulfing the Sungraver factory in the Export Processing Zone. Despite swift action from Rescue 1122 and fire services, the blaze underscored growing concerns over industrial safety protocols.

These recent disasters come amid a damning 2023 audit that revealed 260 out of 266 major commercial buildings in Karachi’s central business districts lack basic fire safety systems, with 60% of multi-storey buildings missing emergency exits altogether.

The Korangi Creek fire serves as a grave reminder of Karachi's unpreparedness in handling industrial emergencies, and authorities now face mounting pressure to address these systemic flaws before more lives and properties are put at risk.
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EmergencyResponse

KarachiFire

KorangiCreek

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