A massive fire at a busy shopping centre in Karachi has claimed at least six lives, including a firefighter, as rescue teams continue battling flames and searching for survivors. The blaze broke out at Gul Plaza, a large multi-storey mall housing around 1,200 shops, and quickly spread from the ground floor to the upper levels, engulfing most of the building.
Rescue officials said parts of the structure, which covers about 8,000 square metres, have collapsed, severely hampering rescue efforts. More than 20 people have been injured, while families fear that others may still be trapped inside. Authorities say over 30 people have been reported missing, with anxious relatives gathered outside the site as officials record details of the unaccounted-for.
Firefighters have struggled to enter the building as flames continue to burn and thick smoke billows from the ruins. Police officials confirmed that search operations have been delayed due to the intensity of the fire and the risk of further collapse.
Rescue 1122 officials noted that the shopping centre contained highly flammable materials such as plastic foam, fabrics, carpets and perfumes, which fueled the blaze. Karachi’s police surgeon confirmed that bodies and injured victims were taken to Civil Hospital, adding that mass disaster protocols have been activated.
President Asif Ali Zardari expressed deep condolences and directed Sindh authorities to conduct a thorough review of fire safety measures in commercial and residential buildings across the province.
