A massive fire that erupted at a customs warehouse near Lakpass in the district of Mastung, Balochistan, continues to burn despite more than 22 hours of continuous firefighting efforts. Rescue teams and emergency responders remain engaged in operations as authorities struggle to bring the dangerous blaze completely under control.
According to officials, the fire broke out at approximately 10 a.m. the previous day at a customs storage facility located near the strategically important Lakpass area. Since then, firefighters, rescue workers, and local administration teams have been working nonstop to contain the flames and prevent the fire from spreading further.
Deputy Commissioner Mastung stated that more than ten fire brigade vehicles have been participating in the emergency operation. Despite these efforts, the intensity of the fire increased due to the highly flammable materials stored inside the warehouse.
Authorities revealed that the customs warehouse contained large quantities of LPG cylinders, fuel, chemicals, dry fruits, clothing, and tires. The presence of combustible materials caused the flames to spread rapidly, making firefighting operations extremely difficult and dangerous for rescue personnel.
Following the outbreak of the fire, several explosions were also reported from LPG bowsers and gas cylinders stored at the site. The explosions created panic and fear among residents in nearby areas, as thick smoke and flames could be seen from a considerable distance. Witnesses described the situation as terrifying, with repeated blasts shaking the surrounding region.
Officials confirmed that at least 35 people sustained burn injuries during the incident. The injured were immediately shifted to nearby hospitals, where medical teams are providing emergency treatment and care. Some rescue workers and individuals present near the warehouse at the time of the explosions were also reportedly among the injured.
The fire also caused massive financial losses, with more than 100 vehicles reportedly destroyed in the blaze. Burned trucks, transport vehicles, and other automobiles could be seen scattered around the affected area after the flames spread across the warehouse premises.
Authorities stated that the intensity of the fire reduced later during the night, allowing traffic on the Quetta-Karachi Highway to resume. The highway had earlier been affected due to safety concerns, smoke, and emergency operations near the site. The reopening of the road provided relief to travelers and transporters who had been stranded because of the incident.
District administration officials said rescue and cooling operations would continue until the fire is completely extinguished. Emergency teams remain on high alert because of the possibility of additional explosions or flare-ups caused by remaining fuel containers and chemicals inside the warehouse.
The administration has also launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire. Authorities are expected to examine safety procedures, storage conditions, and possible negligence that may have contributed to the incident. Officials believe a detailed inquiry will help identify the factors behind the disaster and prevent similar incidents in the future.
Incidents involving warehouses storing hazardous and flammable materials often pose major risks due to poor safety management, overcrowded storage, or lack of emergency preparedness. Experts say facilities dealing with LPG, fuel, and chemicals require strict monitoring and specialized fire prevention systems to avoid catastrophic accidents.
The incident in Mastung has once again highlighted concerns regarding industrial and warehouse safety standards in sensitive areas. Local residents and social media users have called for stricter regulations, improved emergency response systems, and regular inspections of facilities handling dangerous materials.
The prolonged firefighting operation also demonstrates the challenges faced by emergency responders in controlling fires involving chemicals, fuel, and gas cylinders. Such fires can continue burning for extended periods due to repeated explosions and the presence of highly combustible substances.
Authorities have urged the public to stay away from the affected area until the situation is fully under control. Rescue officials continue to monitor the site carefully while medical teams remain prepared to handle any additional emergencies.
As investigations continue and firefighting efforts remain underway, the Mastung warehouse fire stands as one of the most serious industrial fire incidents in the region in recent times, causing injuries, destruction of property, and widespread concern among the public.
