KARACHI: The city paid tribute to firefighter Furqan Ali, who embraced martyrdom while battling the deadly fire at Gul Plaza. Ali, 36, had been serving at the Nazimabad Fire Station under the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) Fire Department since 2018, following the death of his father, who had also served in the department.
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“Despite his young family and personal responsibilities, he remained steadfast in his duty, responding to emergencies with courage and selflessness,” said his maternal uncle, Aftab Ahmed. Colleagues remembered Ali as disciplined, hardworking, and always willing to put himself at risk to save others. He was the youngest of seven siblings, married just a year and a half ago, and the father of a seven-month-old boy.
Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab visited Ali’s residence on Monday evening to express condolences and pay homage to his bravery. He lauded Ali’s exceptional courage, dedication, and strong sense of responsibility, calling his sacrifice a proud example of national service.
The mayor announced a financial assistance package of Rs10 million for Ali’s family. He said Ali’s widow would be employed by the KMC, and the corporation would cover all educational expenses of their child. In addition, he declared that the Nazimabad Fire Station would be renamed in honour of Shaheed Firefighter Furqan Ali.
Mayor Wahab assured the family that all benefits and entitlements would continue to be paid regularly. “While no compensation can replace the loss of a loved one, the KMC stands firmly with the family in this hour of grief,” he said.
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The city’s tribute underscores the dedication and courage of first responders, with Ali’s sacrifice serving as a solemn reminder of the risks firefighters face while protecting lives.