Massive fire at Millennium Mall destroys over 250 shops, causes losses in millions

A massive fire broke out early Wednesday morning at Millennium Mall on Rashid Minhas Road, destroying more than 250 shops, causing millions of rupees in losses, and triggering a large-scale rescue and firefighting operation.

According to Rescue 1122 officials, the fire began around 4:06am in the mall’s Control and Surveillance Room on the third floor. A short circuit reportedly caused a small explosion, which ignited a blaze that quickly spread upward to the rooftop and downward to the second and first floors.

The situation worsened due to inactive firefighting systems, faulty electrical wiring, and the absence of proper emergency exits. The mall reportedly had only one entry and exit point, significantly hampering evacuation and firefighting efforts.

A total of 12 fire engines and two snorkels — including teams from the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) and Rescue 1122 — responded to the emergency. Despite their swift arrival, the operation was delayed due to critical water shortages. Firefighters were able to bring the flames under control after more than four hours of intense effort.

Chief Fire Officer Humayun Khan confirmed that the third and fourth floors, which housed corporate offices and garment shops respectively, suffered the most severe damage. The first and second floors were also affected, though to a lesser extent.

Fortunately, no casualties or injuries were reported, and residents of a nearby apartment complex were safely evacuated. In a poignant discovery during post-fire cooling operations, Rescue 1122 teams found 60 copies of the Holy Quran completely intact in the burned sections of the mall. Despite the extensive destruction around them, the Qurans remained untouched by fire, moving both rescuers and bystanders.

Preliminary investigations suggested that negligence on the part of the mall’s management might have contributed to the incident. Authorities had launched a full probe to determine the exact cause of the fire.

Emergency teams remained led on-site to complete cooling efforts and ensure structural safety, while damage assessments and recovery operations continued.