Karachi Commissioner Syed Hassan Naqvi finalised the Gul Plaza fire report, which will be submitted to Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah. The report details the causes, rescue operations, and relief efforts during the tragedy.
The fire erupted around 10:15pm on January 17 at the sprawling shopping complex, home to 1,200 family-owned shops selling wedding clothes, toys, crockery, and other goods.
According to the Gul Plaza fire report, the blaze originated at a flower shop on the ground floor, reportedly caused by a child, and spread rapidly through AC ducts.
Rescue teams acted quickly: the fire brigade was informed at 10:26pm, the first tender arrived at 10:37pm, Deputy Commissioner South reached at 10:30pm, and Rescue 1122 personnel arrived at 10:53pm.
Despite prompt action, 79 lives were lost, mainly on the mezzanine floor, as noted in the Gul Plaza fire report.
The search and rescue operation concluded after 10 days, and the scorched shopping centre has now been sealed.
An FIR was filed at Nabi Bux Police Station under negligence and carelessness provisions. Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar said terrorism or sabotage could not be ruled out, and anti-terror clauses would be added if evidence emerged.
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Sindh CM Murad Ali Shah announced plans to rebuild shops within two years, while the remaining part of Gul Plaza will be demolished. The Gul Plaza fire report provides a detailed account of the incident, highlighting the tragedy and lessons for future safety.
