A devastating fire swept through a shopping center in Karachi, Pakistan, claiming the lives of at least six individuals and causing numerous injuries. Shocking visuals captured flames engulfing the Gulo Plaza shopping center, as firefighters battled the inferno overnight. Crowds gathered outside the multi-story building, witnessing the intense blaze.
According to rescue spokesman Hassaanul Haseeb Khan, the fire originated in ground-floor shops before rapidly spreading upwards, trapping occupants inside the tall structure. Law enforcement implemented a “mass disaster protocol” to manage the situation.
Khan stated, “Upon our arrival, the fire had already spread to upper levels, engulfing the entire building. Although the situation is critical, six fire units are diligently working to contain the fire.” Tragically, the death toll and injured count increased as rescue teams discovered victims within the flames. Police medic Dr. Summaiya Syed confirmed six fatalities at Karachi’s Civil Hospital, with 11 individuals undergoing treatment for burns and smoke inhalation.
Firefighters and rescue personnel swiftly responded to the emergency at Gul Plaza after reports of the blaze emerged around 10 pm local time. Media reports indicated that most shop owners were closing up when the fire erupted and swiftly spread.
Television footage depicted firefighters in protective gear combating the flames with water cannons and hoses, as thick black smoke billowed into the night sky. The Sindh Rangers dispatched a team to aid in evacuations and support firefighting efforts at the scene.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, with authorities planning an investigation post-extinguishment. Notably, many structures in Karachi lack adequate fire prevention measures, contributing to incidents like this. Karachi, the capital of southern Sindh province, has seen similar tragedies in the past, such as a November 2023 mall fire that resulted in 10 fatalities and 22 injuries.