At least six individuals lost their lives, and over a dozen sustained injuries in a major fire outbreak at Gul Plaza shopping mall in Karachi, Pakistan. The tragic incident saw the death toll rise as a firefighter named Furqan from the Nazimabad Fire Office was discovered under the debris and transported to the Civil Hospital Trauma Centre. The firefighting operation is still ongoing, with the fire burning for more than 13 hours, causing parts of the building to collapse due to the intense heat.
Health authorities reported that four bodies were brought to the Civil Hospital Trauma Centre, while two were taken to the Burns Ward. Fifteen injured individuals were also admitted to the Trauma Centre, with 14 already discharged. Additionally, two injured persons received treatment at Jinnah Hospital and were later released. Chief Fire Officer Humayun Khan informed Geo News that Gul Plaza spans two acres and remains engulfed in flames at its perimeters. The structure has been deemed severely deteriorated, with the Sindh Building Control Authority officials set to assess its condition and make a decision.
Khan highlighted the challenges faced due to the high temperatures within the building, impeding rescue operations. He noted the lack of proper ventilation in the plaza, complicating firefighting efforts. Sindh Emergency Service Rescue 1122 Chief Operating Officer Abid Jalaluddin Shaikh mentioned the involvement of 20 fire tenders and four snorkels in combating the fire from multiple sides. Concerns lingered as fire brigade officials suspected individuals might still be trapped inside the mall, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding the exact number of people within the building.
