KARACHI: The Director General of Rescue 1122 has submitted a detailed response and preliminary inquiry report to the Judicial Commission investigating the Gul Plaza fire tragedy. The report identifies a severe lack of fire safety infrastructure and delayed reporting as the primary reasons for the loss of life.
Key Findings of the Report
The building lacked basic fire safety equipment including sprinkler systems, hydrants, and fire alarms. Emergency exits were either permanently closed or blocked by encroachments, leaving no clear evacuation plan for occupants. Furthermore, many windows were sealed with steel and concrete, significantly hindering rescue operations and ventilation. By the time rescue teams reached the site, the blaze had reached “Level 3” intensity, meaning the building was fully engulfed and the structure had become unstable.
Operational Challenges
According to DG Rescue 1122, the rescue teams faced immense hurdles due to heavy crowds, traffic jams, road closures, and ongoing construction in the vicinity. The influx of ambulances from various welfare organizations and private vehicles further congested the area, impeding the movement of fire tenders. Due to the building’s instability and thick smoke—which reduced visibility to near zero—firefighters were forced to adopt a defensive strategy, battling the flames from the adjacent Rampa Plaza. Despite these risks, several individuals trapped on upper floors were successfully rescued through windows.
Critical Recommendations
The inquiry report emphasizes the urgent need for structural reforms in commercial buildings, suggesting the mandatory installation of dedicated fire water reservoirs, hydrant systems, and automated sprinklers. It also stresses the importance of having certified fire safety staff and basic firefighting equipment on every floor, while ensuring dedicated and unobstructed access routes for emergency vehicles at all times.
Alarming Statistics
The report also highlighted a worrying trend in the city’s fire safety record. Karachi witnessed 1,094 fire incidents in 2025, while 84 incidents have already been reported in the first few months of 2026.
