Karachi: A massive fire broke out at Gul Plaza, a commercial building on M.A. Jinnah Road, late Saturday night, resulting in six fatalities and at least 20 injuries, rescue officials confirmed.
The blaze, which intensified rapidly, caused a portion of the building to collapse, trapping several people inside and making evacuation extremely challenging.
Rescue teams, including fire brigade units from across the city and the Pakistan Navy’s firefighting team equipped with a snorkel, conducted an overnight rescue and cooling operation.
The body of firefighter Furqan was recovered from under the debris, marking one of the tragic fatalities. Out of the six victims, four have been identified, while the remaining two were severely burned. Hospital authorities confirmed the condition of the deceased.
Chief Fire Officer Humayun Khan stated that four fire tenders and a snorkel unit were deployed to control the blaze. He noted that although the fire’s intensity has reduced, the operation remains sensitive due to structural damage.
Authorities also reported that a second section of the building collapsed during rescue operations, prompting security personnel to evacuate people from nearby areas. One body recovered from this section is believed to be that of another firefighter and is being transferred to a civil hospital for further procedures.
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To ensure uninterrupted firefighting efforts, Fire Brigade and Rescue 1122 sought emergency support from the Karachi Water Corporation.
On the directives of CEO Ahmed Ali Siddiqui, emergencies were imposed at the NEPA and Safoora hydrants, and water tankers were dispatched to the site. Continuous water supply is being maintained until the fire is fully extinguished.
Deputy Commissioner South Javed Nabi revealed that the building was constructed in 1989 and its records are under review. He questioned the absence of effective emergency exits despite internal pathways and noted that mandatory firefighting equipment was not found inside the building. Authorities have directed all markets to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations.
Hospital officials confirmed that three bodies were shifted to the Trauma Center and two to the Burns Ward. Of the 15 injured brought to the Trauma Center, 14 were discharged after first aid, while one remains under treatment.
Two injured individuals taken to Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre were later discharged. Three patients are currently admitted to the Burns Ward, one of whom is reported to be in critical condition.
Authorities stated that rescue, cooling, and investigation operations are ongoing, while inquiries continue to determine the cause of the fire and assess safety violations.
