Gharibabad furniture shops gutted by fire.

KARACHI -- A huge fire broke out near the furniture market in Liaquatabad, which destroyed over 40 shops and warehouses, officials said on Saturday.

No one was hurt in the incident.

A fire official said that the blaze erupted in the market of Gharibabad at around 1.25am on Saturday. Fire engines from eight stations put out the fire by 7.15am, he added.

The fireman said that around 40-50 shops and warehouses were located in the market, which were destroyed.

Thick smoke emanating from the market had engulfed the residential area causing breathing problems for residents who left their houses.

Speaking to journalists, shopkeepers complained about 'slow' response from the fire engines and lack of water.

They claimed that first fire engine arrived without water in...