South Asia Pakistan Terminal: Two fire incidents within a month raise safety concerns

KARACHI: Two fire incidents within a month at the South Asia Pakistan Terminal (SAPT) have raised serious questions about safety protocols and the quality of tracking equipment used on cargo containers, with sources alleging that customs authorities have failed to properly investigate the matter.

The first fire broke out at V Tracking Company’s office at SAPT on October 28, 2025. According to sources, the customs authorities reportedly ignored the incident and launched no investigation into its cause.

Following the initial blaze, the company relocated its operations to another tracking company’s office along with all tracking devices and batteries. A month later, fire erupted again, this time destroying devices and equipment worth millions of rupees belonging to both companies.

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Sources claimed that the lithium batteries used in the tracking devices are substandard and have been exploding during charging. These batteries are attached to tracking devices mounted on transit containers, raising concerns about potential risks to cargo operations.

The repeated incidents and alleged lack of formal action by customs have created challenges for SAPT in maintaining safety protocols at the port facility. Sources further alleged that customs officials have been involved in suppressing information about the incidents.

In response to queries, SAPT management expressed helplessness, saying that customs authorities had authorised the tracking company to operate at the port facility. SAPT spokesperson said they have neither the authority to take action against the company nor to raise the issue directly with the customs.

However, V-Tracking Company CEO rejected allegations of substandard equipment. Confirming both incidents, he attributed them to short circuits rather than battery defects. “The company has installed over 2,000 devices and these batteries are performing well,” he said, adding that investigations are under way to prevent future occurrences.

The incidents have sparked concerns over equipment quality standards and regulatory oversight at one of Pakistan’s major port facilities, with questions remaining about the adequacy of safety measures and official accountability.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2025