Gul Plaza Fire Death Toll Rises to 71 as Search Operation Nears Completion

Karachi, Saturday (January 24, 2026): The death toll from the deadly Gul Plaza fire in Karachi has increased to 71, as rescue officials confirmed that around 80% of the search operation has now been completed, almost a week after the tragic blaze.

Authorities said that heavy machinery is being used to remove the remaining rubble of the damaged building. So far, 20 bodies have been identified, while efforts continue to confirm the identities of others.

DNA Testing Underway for Victim Identification

Police Surgeon Dr Summaiya Tariq said that most bodies recovered from the site were severely burned, making the identification process very difficult. She confirmed that 13 victims were identified through DNA testing, while more samples are still being analysed.

She added that human remains and bones are still being recovered from parts of the building, especially the basement area.

82 People Still Listed as Missing

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, while speaking in the provincial assembly, said that 88 people were initially reported missing after the fire.

However, one person returned safely and five names were found to be duplicated. This reduced the final missing list to 82 individuals.

Out of these, 67 bodies have been recovered, while 15 people are still missing, he added.

Important Evidence Recovered from Site

Officials revealed that four DVRs (digital video recorders) were found during debris removal. These devices may help investigators understand how the fire started and how it spread inside the building.

During the operation, rescue teams also recovered 1.5 kilograms of gold and more than Rs100,000 in cash from a basement shop. These valuables were later returned to their owners.

Governor Demands Judicial Inquiry

Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori has demanded a judicial inquiry into the tragedy. He said he will write to the Chief Justices of the Supreme Court and Sindh High Court, asking for an independent investigation.

“Those responsible must be identified and punished without delay,” the governor said.

He criticised the Sindh government for poor handling of the incident and claimed that water tankers were stuck in traffic near Guru Mandir, delaying firefighting efforts.

“People pay taxes and expect safety. Such tragedies will continue if no one is held accountable,” he added.

Fire Likely Started from Flower Shop

According to preliminary investigation sources, the fire started from a shop selling artificial flowers. Children were reportedly present in the shop and may have been playing with a lighter or matches.

The fire then spread quickly through electrical wiring, trapping many people inside as several exit gates were found closed.

The final cause of the fire has not yet been officially confirmed.