Pakistan: Deadly Fire at Karachi’s Gul Plaza Leaves Six Dead, Dozens Missing

Karachi, Jan 19 — A devastating fire tore through Gul Plaza Shopping Mall on MA Jinnah Road in Karachi late Saturday night, killing at least six people and leaving 38 others unaccounted for, according to local media reports. The blaze, which erupted around 10 pm, caused part of the commercial complex to collapse, triggering fears that many people remain trapped inside.

Authorities said firefighting teams managed to bring a large portion of the fire under control, but rescue operations are still underway amid hazardous conditions. Officials confirmed that six bodies have been recovered and handed over to families, while at least 22 injured persons are receiving medical treatment. Tragically, one firefighter also lost his life during the rescue efforts.

Police officials in Karachi’s South district stated that detailed information is being collected to trace the missing individuals. Rescue workers and emergency teams continue to search the debris, as thick smoke and structural damage hamper operations.

The president of the Gul Plaza Traders Association, Tanveer Qasim, claimed that between 80 and 100 people could still be inside the building. He criticised the authorities for what he described as an inadequate response, saying that traders themselves rescued nearly 200 to 250 people in the early hours of the incident. He also alleged that firefighting teams repeatedly faced shortages of water and diesel during the operation.

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Rescue officials reported that several people suffered from smoke inhalation, while others were injured amid panic and stampede-like situations as the fire spread rapidly. Fire department officials warned that due to the intensity of the blaze, fully extinguishing it could take considerable time.

Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, extending condolences to the bereaved families and directing authorities to ensure swift medical aid and relief for the affected. Pakistan Peoples Party chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also conveyed his grief, instructing provincial and city authorities to deploy all available resources for rescue operations and to carry out a transparent investigation into the incident.

As search efforts continue, concerns remain high over the fate of those still missing, with families anxiously awaiting news amid the ruins of one of Karachi’s prominent commercial hubs.