Karachi Port Trust (KPT) has said on April 07 that a molasses leakage incident took place in a private terminal “Pakistan Molasses Company (PMC)” yard at (Shireen Jinnah Colony), near Karachi port yesterday. The terminal is a private entity, however, KPT has provided all rescue and medical support to the terminal and the Crisis Management Center 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. On scene investigation revealed that one of the molasses tank containing 6000 metric tonnes of Cargo (Molasses), allegedly collapsed due to weak structure. The sudden break caused heavy spillage which resulted in two casualties and caused injuries to 07 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 by the PMC. 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 Center and Port Security Force is assisting the PMC in recovery operation.