Karachi – Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah visited Gul Plaza following the devastating fire, reviewed ongoing rescue and firefighting efforts, and met with affected shopkeepers and families. He assured that the government will conduct a thorough investigation and provide all possible assistance to the victims.
The fire, reported after 10:00 PM, saw the first fire tender arrive at 10:27 PM. A total of 26 fire tenders, four snorkels, and 10 water bowsers participated in the operation, supported by the Navy, Karachi Port Trust (KPT), and the Civil Aviation Authority.
According to reports, six people, including a KMC firefighter, lost their lives, 22 injured were treated and discharged, and 58–60 people remain missing. The building, comprising a basement, ground floor, and three upper floors with over 1,000 shops, is believed to have caught fire due to a short circuit, with flammable materials accelerating its spread. Firefighters faced challenges due to limited access points and the building layout.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep grief and extended condolences, urging authorities to provide immediate support to affected traders and families. Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon stressed that human safety is the government’s top priority and called for focus on relief efforts rather than politics.
Sindh Labour Minister Saeed Ghani assured financial compensation for victims while emphasizing the need to extinguish the fire, rescue those trapped, and complete search operations. Ghani and Deputy Mayor Salman Murad also visited the families of deceased traders, offering condolences and prayers.
The Sindh government continues to coordinate relief, rescue, and support efforts while a detailed inquiry into the incident is underway.