A devastating fire broke out late Saturday night at Gul Plaza, a crowded commercial building located on M.A. Jinnah Road, Karachi, causing massive destruction and leaving the city in shock. The tragic incident resulted in heavy loss of life and property, once again raising serious concerns about fire safety measures in commercial buildings.
According to initial reports, the fire erupted at around 10:15 p.m. on Saturday and rapidly spread throughout the multi-storey plaza. The building housed hundreds of shops dealing in garments, electronics, household items, and decorative goods. Due to the highly flammable material inside the shops, the flames intensified quickly, producing thick black smoke that could be seen from far-off areas.
Rescue and firefighting teams rushed to the scene soon after the incident was reported. More than 20 fire tenders and rescue vehicles were deployed to control the blaze. However, firefighters faced severe difficulties due to narrow access points, lack of emergency exits, and the intensity of the fire. The operation continued throughout the night and extended into Sunday as firefighters struggled to bring the situation under control.
Several people were reportedly trapped inside the building at the time of the fire. As rescue operations progressed, dozens of bodies were recovered, while many others were injured and shifted to nearby hospitals. Many victims suffered severe burns and smoke inhalation. Identification of the deceased proved difficult, prompting authorities to involve forensic teams for DNA testing.
Shopkeepers and workers at Gul Plaza suffered devastating losses. Many traders lost their entire businesses, including merchandise worth millions of rupees. Families of missing persons gathered outside the plaza, anxiously searching for information about their loved ones. Scenes of grief and desperation were witnessed as relatives waited for updates from rescue officials.
Authorities stated that the building’s structure had weakened significantly due to prolonged exposure to fire, making rescue efforts more dangerous. Sections of the plaza partially collapsed, further complicating operations. As a result, search and recovery work was carried out cautiously to avoid additional casualties.
Government officials, including senior provincial and city authorities, visited the site and expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives. They announced compensation for the affected families and ordered a thorough investigation into the incident. Preliminary findings suggest that the fire may have started on the ground floor, possibly due to an electrical short circuit, though the exact cause is yet to be confirmed.
The Gul Plaza fire has once again highlighted the urgent need for strict enforcement of fire safety regulations in Karachi. Citizens and traders have demanded accountability and improved safety standards to prevent such tragedies in the future.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a grim reminder of the consequences of negligence and the importance of ensuring safety in public and commercial spaces.
