KARACHI – In a major crackdown on fire safety violations, the district administration on Tuesday sealed two prominent commercial hubs in the Saddar area—Hashoo Centre and the Electric Market. The operation, led by Assistant Commissioner (AC) Rana Sufiyan and the Preedy Police, resulted in the closure of over 200 shops. Authorities also shut down the famous Naseeb Biryani outlet located within the Saddar Mobile Market during the raid.
The Enforcement Action
Before sealing the premises, police made formal public announcements, advising shopkeepers and customers to vacate the buildings. According to AC Rana Sufiyan, the action was taken after the management failed to comply with safety directives issued a week ago. Shopkeepers were served notices seven days ago, yet no safety measures were implemented. Officials found gas cylinders, thinners, and other hazardous materials stored on-site, posing a massive fire risk.
Safety Hazards and Risks
The authorities highlighted several critical violations during the inspection. There was a significant presence of flammable substances like chemical thinners on shop floors. At Naseeb Biryani, officials discovered three heavy-duty cylinders, each containing approximately 40kg of gas, in a high-traffic zone. DC South confirmed that the markets lacked functional fire extinguishers and essential emergency exit protocols.
A Bittersweet Moment
A notable scene unfolded at the biryani center when customers were seen exiting the shop with plates in hand as the seal was being applied. In a gesture of cooperation, officials allowed the restaurant staff to move their large cooking cauldrons (deghs) out of the shop before locking the premises.
Duration of Closure
DC South has stated that the markets will remain sealed until all fire safety arrangements are fully implemented and verified by the relevant authorities.
