KARACHI: Rescue operations continued on Tuesday at Karachi’s Gul Plaza after a massive fire claimed at least 23 lives, with teams working to clear debris from the mall’s basement. The blaze erupted on Saturday night in the ground-plus-three-storey shopping complex, which housed 1,200 shops across 8,000 square yards.
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While the fire was largely doused after more than 24 hours, flames reignited on Monday, forcing firefighters to resume operations. Deputy Inspector General (DIG) South Syed Asad Raza said rescue teams had not entered the first floor overnight, and no bodies were recovered during that period.
Mayor Murtaza Wahab, who visited the site overnight, said the fire had been “brought under control” through the joint efforts of the district administration, rescue agencies, and Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC). He confirmed that teams were clearing the basement and pledged full support to affected families. Heavy machinery was deployed to remove debris and vehicles from the roof, with operations continuing until all missing persons are found.
DIG Raza reported that 23 bodies had been recovered from the debris, some in parts, making identification challenging. Rescue 1122 Chief Operating Officer Dr Abid Jalal noted that forensic verification is ongoing to confirm whether recovered body parts belong to the same or different individuals.
Mayor Wahab said 65 people remain missing, of whom 18 bodies have been identified. He added that while three areas of the building have been accessed, no signs of life were found, and rescue workers are drilling with caution. An inquiry committee has been formed to investigate the fire and potential negligence, though assigning responsibility is not the immediate focus.
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Officials stressed that the plaza’s structure had deteriorated over the years, and with 1,200 active shops, longstanding issues may have contributed to the tragedy. Rescue teams remain on high alert as operations continue.