Gul Plaza Fire Karachi Leaves 67 Dead as Search Enters Sixth Day
Gul Plaza Fire Karachi has emerged as one of the deadliest urban disasters in Pakistan’s recent history, as the death toll climbed to 67 victims and rescue teams continued their search operations for the sixth consecutive day. The devastating fire, which erupted at the commercial building located near Karachi’s busy business district, exposed critical gaps in safety enforcement, emergency preparedness, and building compliance standards.
Authorities confirmed that several bodies were recovered from hard-to-reach sections of the building, while the possibility of more victims trapped under debris could not be ruled out. Families of missing persons continue to wait anxiously as the rescue operation remains slow due to structural instability and toxic conditions inside the building.
What Happened at Gul Plaza Karachi?
The Gul Plaza Fire Karachi incident occurred when a massive blaze engulfed multiple floors of the commercial plaza, reportedly spreading rapidly due to flammable materials and the absence of functional fire safety systems. Witnesses described scenes of chaos, with thick smoke filling corridors and stairwells, leaving occupants with little chance to escape.
Initial investigations suggest that the fire may have originated from an electrical short circuit, though officials have stated that a final determination will only be made after forensic and technical assessments are completed.
According to rescue authorities, the lack of emergency exits, blocked staircases, and locked doors contributed significantly to the high number of casualties.
Six Days of Search and Rescue Operations
As the Gul Plaza Fire Karachi search entered its sixth day, rescue teams from multiple agencies continued clearing debris and scanning collapsed sections using heavy machinery and thermal equipment. The operation has been extremely challenging due to:
- Severe structural damage
- High internal temperatures
- Toxic smoke residue
- Risk of secondary collapse
Officials confirmed that the slow pace is necessary to ensure the safety of rescue workers. Families of the missing have been kept informed through daily briefings, though frustration and grief remain widespread.
Rising Death Toll and Identification Process
The confirmed death toll in the Gul Plaza Fire Karachi tragedy reached 67, with several bodies requiring DNA testing for identification due to severe burns. Hospitals across Karachi have been coordinating with law enforcement to match remains with missing persons reports.
Medical authorities stated that many victims succumbed to smoke inhalation rather than burns, highlighting the absence of proper ventilation and fire alarms inside the building.
Fire Safety Violations Under Scrutiny
The Gul Plaza Fire Karachi disaster has once again raised serious questions about fire safety compliance in commercial buildings across the city. Preliminary findings indicate multiple violations, including:
- Non-functional fire alarms
- Absence of sprinkler systems
- Illegal structural modifications
- Inadequate emergency exits
Experts argue that regular inspections and strict enforcement could have significantly reduced the scale of the tragedy.
Government Response and Investigation
The Sindh government has ordered a high-level inquiry into the Gul Plaza Fire Karachi, with assurances that those responsible for negligence will face legal action. Committees have been formed to investigate:
- Building approval records
- Fire safety certification
- Emergency response delays
Officials have also announced compensation packages for victims’ families, though critics argue that accountability matters more than financial aid.
Impact on Karachi’s Commercial Infrastructure
The Gul Plaza Fire Karachi tragedy has shaken confidence in the safety of aging commercial buildings across the city. Business owners, workers, and investors are now questioning whether existing structures meet minimum safety standards.
Urban planners warn that unless immediate reforms are implemented, similar disasters could occur in other overcrowded commercial zones.
Public Reaction and Calls for Reform
Public outrage has grown on social media, with citizens demanding stricter inspections and punishment for officials who approve unsafe buildings. Civil society groups are calling for:
- Mandatory fire drills
- Transparent inspection reports
- Digitised building safety records
The Gul Plaza Fire Karachi has become a symbol of systemic neglect rather than an isolated incident.
What Comes Next for Victims’ Families
Instead of closure, families affected by the Gul Plaza Fire Karachi continue to face uncertainty. Legal battles, identification delays, and emotional trauma have added to their suffering. Advocacy groups are pushing for long-term reforms so that the loss of 67 lives does not fade into another forgotten statistic.
As search operations near completion, attention is now shifting toward justice, accountability, and ensuring that Karachi’s buildings no longer remain silent death traps waiting for the next spark.
