Burnout" is a solo long-form investigative photo essay created by Zoral Naik Naik for Express Tribune Labs in 2016. The piece delves into the complexities and stereotypes surrounding the Karachi Fire Department, revealing the true nature of the challenges faced by the department.
Over four months, Naik conducted extensive research, secured permissions, and observed emergency situations firsthand. He visited multiple fire stations, interviewed firefighters, and sought to understand why fire emergencies often come with accusations of negligence. His investigation uncovered issues beyond mere negligence, including the inadequate number of fire stations for Karachi's population, outdated safety gear, water shortages, poor urban planning that obstructs fire truck access, and systemic problems such as unpaid salaries and insufficient medical insurance for firefighters, and buildings being constructed without No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from the fire department.
Through "Burnout," Naik aimed to present a comprehensive view of these critical issues, seeking to foster a deeper understanding of the difficulties faced by the Karachi Fire Department. The essay earned him the Agahi Award in 2017 and the ADA Award in 2019.
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