Fire control operations are ongoing at the Multicomercio building in the center of Guayaquil, Ecuador, where a substantial fire ignited early Wednesday morning. The fire, fueled by a large volume of stored goods, has resulted in the collapse of two of the complex's five towers, raising serious safety concerns for nearby residents and businesses. As of Thursday afternoon, the fire brigade reported reduced smoke but continued challenges in containing the blaze.

Around 200 firefighters are actively engaged in combating the fire using remotely operated water monitors to ensure their safety while minimizing damage to surrounding areas. The emergency response includes 14 operational fire trucks and 40 supply trucks, in addition to 22 ambulances on standby to address potential respiratory issues caused by smoke inhalation. The scale of the operation highlights the severity of the fire and the ongoing risk to public safety in the heart of the city.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as they work to bring the fire under control and assess the structural integrity of the remaining towers. The incident raises questions about fire safety regulations and emergency preparedness in high-density commercial areas of Guayaquil, particularly concerning the management of flammable goods. As the cleanup and investigation begin, the implications of this incident may lead to policy changes aimed at preventing similar occurrences in the future.