On September 9, an ARY News team, including reporter Afzal Khan and cameraperson Zeeshan Marghoob, sustained injuries while covering a fire at a garment factory in the New Karachi Industrial Area that led to a building collapse. Both journalists were shifted to hospitals for treatment, where doctors declared their condition out of danger.According to rescue officials, a massive fire erupted at a garment factory in New Karachi at around 6 AM. The flames quickly spread to two nearby factories, Gujarat Yarn Dyeing Factory and Double A Enterprises Towel Factory, causing panic in the area. At approximately 11:30 AM, the factory building collapsed due to the intensity of the fire.
Speaking to Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF), Afzal Khan recounted that he and his colleague were reporting near the weakened structure when the collapse occurred. He sustained cuts and bruises on his head and hands after falling, while Marghoob was struck on the head by debris. “I made a mistake by getting too close to the building,” Khan said.
Marghoob also acknowledged misjudging the risk. He told PPF that he initially received treatment at a local hospital before being shifted to Imam Clinic at his own request, with all expenses covered by ARY. He emphasized the need for regular media safety protocol training for reporters and photographers covering hazardous incidents.
Senior Editor ARY News, Majid Khan told PPF that Afzal Khan’s decision to move too close to the scene contributed to his injury. He stressed the importance of following safety standard operating procedures (SOPs) while reporting in high-risk environments.
