Karachi Gul Plaza shopping mall fire: Death toll rises to six, several injured

Karachi — At least six people were killed and more than 20 others injured after a massive fire broke out at Gul Plaza, a shopping complex located on MA Jinnah Road, officials said on Tuesday. Several people are still feared trapped inside the building.

According to rescue officials, a third-degree fire erupted in the shopping plaza and quickly spread, causing significant damage. The injured were shifted to nearby hospitals, where some are reported to be in critical condition.

Fire brigade officials said that more than 16 fire tenders, four snorkels, and a water bowser were deployed to control the blaze. Rescue operations are ongoing amid reports that several individuals remain trapped inside the building.

Initial reports indicate that the fire started on the mezzanine floor of the plaza and later spread to shops on the ground and first floors. The shopping plaza comprises a ground floor, mezzanine, and two additional floors, housing more than 1,000 shops.

Chief Fire Officer stated that a loud explosion occurred inside the building, which caused the fire to intensify. Preliminary findings suggest the explosion was caused by a gas leak.

During the rescue operation, two individuals were injured after fire brigade ladders collapsed, officials confirmed.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari directed the Sindh Chief Minister and the Mayor of Karachi to utilize all available resources to extinguish the fire and ensure effective rescue efforts.

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extended condolences to the families of the deceased. He also ordered an immediate investigation into the incident and directed authorities to take measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

A spokesperson for the Sindh government said all necessary resources were being provided and efforts were underway to bring the fire under control as soon as possible.