A powerful explosion rocked a fireworks warehouse near Taj Complex on MA Jinnah Road, Karachi, on Thursday, triggering a massive fire that engulfed the area in thick smoke.

According to Rescue 1122, more than 30 people have been injured, with several reported to be in critical condition. The injured have been shifted to Jinnah Hospital and Civil Hospital by ambulances from Edhi and Rescue 1122 services.

Firefighters rushed to the site and deployed 10 fire tenders to bring the blaze under control. Efforts are still underway to extinguish the fire and prevent it from spreading to nearby buildings.

The Karachi Traffic Police have diverted traffic from MA Jinnah Road and urged commuters to use alternative routes to avoid congestion in the affected area.

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has taken strict notice of the incident, directing authorities to ensure immediate medical aid for the injured and ordering a full investigation into the cause of the explosion.

Authorities are yet to determine the source of the blast, and rescue operations are still ongoing.