Two killed, seven hurt in molasses spillage from private firm's storage tank in Shireen Jinnah Colony

KARACHI: Two persons were killed and seven others sustained injuries in a molasses spillage incident at a private firm's storage thank in Shireen Jinnah Colony, here on Saturday.

"The molasses spillage incident took place in a private terminal 'Pakistan Molasses Company (PMC)' yard at Oil Installation Area (Shireen Jinnah Colony),' said a press release issued from the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) late on Saturday.

It said: "The terminal is a private entity, however, KPT has provided all rescue and medical support to the terminal and the Crisis Management Centre of KPT immediately started rescue operations. KPT Fire Brigades and KPT hospital ambulances along with doctors and paramedical staff immediately reached the spot and started rescue operation."

It further said: "On scene investigation revealed that one of the molasses tank containing 6000 metric tons of Cargo (Molasses) collapsed due to weak structure. The sudden break caused heavy spillage which resulted in two casualties and caused injuries to seven staff members of the private terminal who were working in the nearby control station and weighing bridge within the premises.

"Casualty and injured personnel immediately rescued and shifted to KPT/Civil Hospital. Post incident damage assessment revealed that the silo of Molasses collapsed due to weak structure and poor maintenance."

The KPT further said in the statement that the outburst of molasses along with the metal debris resulted in damaging the two empty adjacent tanks as well. "An inquiry to investigate the actual cause has been initiated. The FIR of the incident has been lodged in Jackson Police Station by KPT. Crisis Management Centre and Port Security Force is assisting the private company in recovery operation," it added.