KARACHI: The death toll from the devastating fire at Gul Plaza shopping mall on M.A. Jinnah Road has climbed to 26, with authorities confirming that 75 individuals remain missing. While the blaze has been largely contained, the cooling process continues as rescue teams navigate a structure that is now 40% collapsed and declared extremely hazardous by experts.
Rescue Operations and Missing Persons Deputy Commissioner (DC) Javed Nabi Khoso reported that search operations are intensified on the second, third, and fourth floors. “The fire’s intensity was so severe that we attempted to enter the building 32 times but were pushed back by the heat,” he said. Currently, rescue teams are using torches to search through the dark, smoke-filled corridors.
While 83 names were initially reported missing, officials have confirmed 75 unique cases after removing duplicates. Geofencing has traced the last known locations of 39 missing persons to the immediate vicinity of the plaza.
Structure in Peril The Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) has warned that the remaining 60% of the building is in a precarious state. A demolition team is on-site to guide rescue workers on safe entry points. Commissioner Karachi Hassan Naqvi stated that an inquiry committee has begun gathering evidence, and strict action will be taken if any criminal negligence is discovered.
Recovery Efforts and Miraculous Survival Rescue 1122 and the Fire Department are conducting a phased operation. Dr. Abid Jalaluddin Sheikh, COO of Rescue 1122, explained that the final death toll is difficult to ascertain as many remains were found in parts. “Forensic and DNA testing will be required to confirm the identity and number of victims,” he added.
In a rare moment of relief, the administration successfully recovered 32 vehicles (including 16 cars and 12 motorcycles) from the rooftop using heavy cranes and handed them over to their owners.
Amidst the tragedy, stories of survival have emerged. A young man named Khalid managed to escape by feeling his way along the walls in total darkness before collapsing outside. However, he remains in agony as his two brothers and other family members are still trapped inside.
Administration’s Stance Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab visited the site late at night, directing all municipal departments to remain on high alert until the operation is complete. “The search will continue until every missing person is accounted for,” the Mayor vowed.
Authorities have established a “Red Zone” around the plaza, urging traders to cooperate and stay away for their own safety. Experts estimate that clearing the debris could take up to 17 days.
