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The preliminary chemical analysis report of water collected from the site of a mysterious fire pit near Korangi Creek in Karachi has revealed the presence of multiple hazardous substances.
According to media reports, high concentrations of benzene, toluene, and tetrachloroethane were found in the boiling water sample taken from the fire zone.
The report shows that tetrachloroethane levels reached 33 micrograms per liter, far exceeding the safe limit of 5 micrograms.
Similarly, benzene was measured at 19 micrograms per liter, and toluene at 15 micrograms, both three times above the safe limit. A small excess of o-xylene was also detected in the sample.
READ: Korangi Creek fire reveals no major underground reserve: CFO
Despite the alarming presence of these toxic chemicals, PPL officials stated that overall hydrocarbon levels were within permissible limits.
Meanwhile, Karachi’s Chief Fire Officer, Humayun Khan, commented on the incident, saying that based on their assessment, the fire does not appear to be linked to a large underground chemical storage.
He added that while the fire itself could be brought under control within an hour, there is a significant risk that gas emissions from the site could spread, potentially posing health risks to nearby residents.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, and further investigations are expected to determine the exact cause and nature of the incident.
