The devastating fire that broke out at Gul Plaza on M.A. Jinnah Road, Karachi, late on Saturday night has left a deep emotional scar on the city. Beyond the tragic loss of lives and property, the incident marked the destruction of a place that held decades of memories for Karachiites. Popular television actress Madiha Imam expressed her grief over the tragedy, saying that Gul Plaza was not merely a shopping center but a cultural icon of the city.
In her statement following the incident, Madiha Imam reflected on the emotional and historical significance of Gul Plaza. She noted that for generations, the plaza had been a familiar landmark where families shopped, workers earned their livelihoods, and small traders built their businesses. According to her, the loss of Gul Plaza represents not only physical destruction but also the disappearance of a shared urban memory.
The fire erupted late Saturday evening and quickly spread through the multi-storey building, trapping several people inside. Rescue teams battled the blaze for many hours under extremely dangerous conditions. Thick smoke, intense heat, and a structurally weakened building made rescue operations difficult. Despite these challenges, emergency workers continued their efforts to save lives and recover victims.
Madiha Imam expressed deep sorrow for the families who lost loved ones in the tragedy. She emphasized that behind every number reported was a human story — parents, children, and breadwinners whose absence would leave lasting pain. She also offered prayers for the injured and for those still missing in the aftermath of the disaster.
Highlighting Gul Plaza’s importance, Madiha recalled how the market served as a hub for affordable shopping and small-scale businesses. It was a place where people from different backgrounds came together, making it an integral part of Karachi’s social and economic fabric. For many shopkeepers, the plaza was their only source of income, and its destruction has left them facing an uncertain future.
The actress also stressed the need for reflection and accountability. She pointed out that such incidents should compel authorities to take fire safety regulations seriously. According to her, the tragedy could serve as a turning point if meaningful steps are taken to ensure proper safety measures, emergency exits, and regular inspections of commercial buildings.
Public reaction to Madiha Imam’s statement was overwhelming. Many citizens agreed that Gul Plaza was more than a marketplace; it was a symbol of Karachi’s resilience and diversity. Social media users shared memories of visiting the plaza with family and friends, reinforcing the emotional connection people had with the site.
As investigations into the cause of the fire continue, voices like Madiha Imam’s remind the nation that rebuilding must go beyond bricks and mortar. The Gul Plaza incident stands as a painful reminder of the cost of negligence and the importance of preserving both human life and cultural heritage.
The tragedy has united the city in grief, while also strengthening calls for reforms to prevent such devastating losses in the future.
