KWSC highlights hydrant shortcomings prior to Gul Plaza fire incident

KARACHI: The Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation (KWSC) had previously raised concerns about deficiencies in the city’s water hydrant system before the recent fire at Gul Plaza, according to official statements.

KWSC authorities stated that they had informed relevant departments about the lack of adequate hydrant facilities in the area. The corporation highlighted that the absence of a nearby hydrant created significant challenges for fire-fighting teams responding to the blaze at Gul Plaza. According to KWSC, fire tenders had to travel considerable distances to access water, which delayed their efforts to control the fire.

Officials from KWSC emphasized that they had repeatedly communicated the need for additional hydrants in key commercial zones, including the vicinity of Gul Plaza. The corporation noted that the existing hydrant infrastructure was insufficient to meet the demands of emergency situations in densely populated and commercial areas.

KWSC representatives further stated that the issue of inadequate hydrant coverage had been brought to the attention of city authorities prior to the incident. They urged for immediate action to expand the hydrant network to prevent similar challenges in future emergencies.

The fire at Gul Plaza underscored the operational difficulties faced by rescue teams due to the limited availability of water sources. KWSC reiterated its call for the installation of more hydrants and improved coordination among municipal departments to ensure timely response to such incidents.