A major fire broke out among containers at the Karachi International Container Terminal (KICT) in Pakistan, on 16 January.
Despite a prompt response from firefighting teams, at least 20 containers were completely destroyed, though fortunately no injuries or casualties have been reported.
The blaze reportedly began around 1:45 p.m. local time near Gate 20, close to the West Wharf. While the exact cause remains under investigation, preliminary reports indicate the fire started in a single container and quickly spread to adjacent units.
Furthermore, the affected containers were carrying hazardous materials, including lithium batteries, chemical powders and electrical equipment.
Authorities and experts suggest the fire may have been triggered or intensified by a lithium-ion battery thermal runaway, spontaneous combustion of chemical cargo, or an electrical short circuit.
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Local sources noted that the area was relatively empty at the time, as many people were attending Friday prayers.