Korangi Creek fire extinguished after 18 days

The long-burning and mysterious fire in Karachi’s Korangi area, which persisted for 18 days, has finally been extinguished, bringing relief to residents and authorities alike. However, gas emissions from the site continue, causing water, originally used by firefighters to control the blaze, to resurface, indicating ongoing underground activity.

The fire began on March 29, following the drilling of a 1,200-foot-deep bore, raising alarms about the type and volume of gas fueling the flames. The incident quickly drew public and governmental attention, prompting high-level investigations.

To address the emergency, the Ministry of Petroleum formed a special committee to examine the presence of methane gas. Additionally, Cudd Well Control, a renowned U.S.-based emergency response firm, was consulted for their expertise in well control. Technical teams from Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) and United Energy Pakistan Limited conducted a joint inspection of the site.

Their assessment found that the fire’s intensity remained consistent since the beginning, hinting at a considerable reserve of connected gas underground. The fire crater has expanded due to water overflow and the loosening of surrounding sand. Even after the fire was extinguished, hot water and visible vapors continue to emerge from the site.

Preliminary chemical analysis of water samples taken earlier from the fire site revealed hazardous chemical compounds, including:

• Tetrachloroethylene: 33 microgrammes per litre (safe limit: 5 mg)
• Benzene: 19 mg per litre (safe limit: 5 mg)
• Toluene: 15 microgrammes per litre (safe limit: 5 mg)
• O-xylene: Slightly elevated, exact figures not disclosed

Despite the presence of these dangerous chemicals, the overall hydrocarbon levels in the water remain within acceptable environmental limits, according to early findings shared by PPL.

The incident has raised environmental and public health concerns, and further analysis and safety measures are expected in the coming days.

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