A devastating fire has swept through a shopping center in Karachi, Pakistan, claiming the lives of at least six individuals and causing injuries to many others.
Disturbing visuals captured flames engulfing Gulo Plaza shopping Centre with firefighters battling the inferno throughout the night. A significant number of people, including those who escaped the multi-story building, gathered outside witnessing the unfolding tragedy.
According to rescue spokesperson Hassaanul Haseeb Khan, the fire originated in ground-floor shops before rapidly spreading upwards, trapping individuals inside the tall structure. Authorities implemented a “mass disaster protocol” to manage the crisis.
Khan reported, “Upon our arrival, the fire had already reached upper floors, engulfing nearly the entire building. The situation is critical, but six fire trucks are diligently working to contain the fire.”
Tragically, the death toll and injuries increased as rescuers discovered individuals within the blaze. Police medic Dr. Summaiya Syed confirmed that six fatalities had been transported to Karachi’s Civil Hospital, with 11 injured individuals receiving treatment for burns and smoke inhalation.
Firefighters and rescue teams swiftly responded to Gul Plaza shortly after 10 pm local time following reports of the blaze. Local media revealed that the fire erupted as most shop owners were closing their stores, spreading swiftly through the premises.
Television footage depicted firefighters in protective gear combating the flames using ladders, water cannons, and hoses. Thick black smoke billowed into the night sky, visible from several blocks away, as firefighters worked tirelessly to extinguish the blaze.
A spokesperson for the Sindh Rangers disclosed that a team had been dispatched to support firefighters and assist in evacuating trapped occupants. The statement affirmed the active involvement of Rangers personnel in rescue operations until completion.
The cause of the fire remained unknown, and authorities announced an investigation post-extinguishment. The lack of fire prevention and firefighting systems in many structures in Karachi and other regions often contributes to incidents like this, resulting in significant damages and casualties.
Authorities noted that the fire spread rapidly due to the presence of imported garments, clothing, and plastic household goods in the mall area where it originated. Karachi, the capital of southern Sindh province, has witnessed similar incidents in the past, with a previous fire in a shopping mall in November 2023 claiming 10 lives and injuring 22 others.