The devastating fire at Gul Plaza on MA Jinnah Road has been completely extinguished after burning for nearly 33 hours, while cooling and search operations continue. The death toll has risen to 14, including a firefighter, as rescue teams recovered four more bodies from the charred building. At least 22 injured people remain under treatment.
The blaze, classified as a third-degree fire, broke out late at night and rapidly engulfed the commercial plaza, which housed more than 1,200 shops selling clothing, electronics, cosmetics, perfumes, crockery, toys, and other goods. The presence of highly flammable materials and chemicals intensified the fire, gutting the ground and mezzanine floors and severely damaging the upper storeys.
According to rescue officials, the fire caused extensive structural damage, leading to cracks and the partial collapse of the building, including its rear portion. Authorities had earlier warned of a possible total collapse, making firefighting and rescue efforts extremely dangerous.
Also Read: Karachi Gul Plaza fire: 10 dead, blaze still uncontrolled
Rescue and Cooling Operations
Chief Fire Officer Humayun Khan confirmed that while the fire has been put out, the cooling process is ongoing and may take several days. Firefighters are cutting window grills, demolishing weakened walls, and using thermal cameras to detect residual heat and any signs of life. A limited search operation was conducted in burned shops, during which body parts of three individuals, including a child, were recovered and shifted to the Civil Hospital Trauma Centre.
On Sunday night, rescue teams managed to enter the building after reports suggested the possible presence of trapped individuals on the third floor. No survivors were found.
Casualties and Challenges
Earlier reports had confirmed at least 10 deaths and more than 30 injuries, with several people in critical condition. Among the deceased were Kashif (40), Faraz (55), Aamir (30), Aamir (28), and one unidentified person. Firefighter Furqan Ali was martyred when part of the structure collapsed during rescue operations.
Rescue teams faced major challenges, including heavy smoke due to poor ventilation, blocked or absent emergency exits, water shortages requiring supply from distant hydrants at NIPA and Safoora, and large crowds hindering the movement of emergency vehicles.
Also Read: Karachi Gul Plaza fire leaves 5 dead, dozens injured
Massive Emergency Response
More than 22 fire tenders, multiple snorkels, and teams from Rescue 1122, Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC), Pakistan Navy, Pakistan Airports Authority, and Sindh Rangers took part in the operation. Rangers were also deployed to control crowds, manage traffic, and secure the area.
Government Response and Investigation
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari expressed deep grief over the loss of lives and directed the Sindh Chief Minister and Karachi Mayor to use all available resources. He also ordered a transparent investigation to determine the cause of the fire and prevent similar incidents.
Sindh Home Minister and government spokesperson Saadia Javed confirmed that federal and provincial agencies are actively involved and stressed that accountability will follow once the emergency phase concludes, particularly regarding safety violations, blocked exits, and negligence.
Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab said the city stands with the affected families and instructed all municipal departments to remain on high alert as rescue, cooling, and assessment operations continue.
