Gul Plaza fire: 20 dead, rescue ongoing amid risk of further collapse

KARACHI: A massive search and rescue operation is underway after a fire-damaged building, Gul Plaza, partially collapsed, leaving at least 20 people dead and dozens missing, officials said on Tuesday.

Building at Risk of Further Collapse

Deputy Commissioner South, Javed Nabi Khosa, warned that the structure could collapse at any moment. “The building’s fire damage has made it unstable. About 40 percent of the structure has already fallen, and experts say the remaining sections are weak,” he said. Residents and traders were urged to stay away from the area and avoid the red zone for their safety.

Casualties and Identification Efforts

So far, 18 of the 20 bodies recovered have been identified, while police continue DNA testing to identify others. Police Surgeon Dr Samiya confirmed that samples from 14 bodies have been collected, and 48 family reference samples have been sent to the Sindh Forensic DNA Laboratory for verification. One body has been identified using an identity card.

Ongoing Rescue Operations

Authorities said the list of missing persons has risen to 83, with 39 confirmed to have been inside the building. Rescue teams have begun entering other sections of the building to continue searching for survivors. Families of two more missing individuals have contacted officials, increasing the urgency of operations.

Deputy Commissioner Khosa appealed for cooperation from traders and local residents, emphasising that the operation prioritizes human safety while continuing under expert supervision.

Rs10 Million compensation for Gul Plaza Fire victims

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah announced on Monday that the provincial government would provide Rs10 million to each family of those killed in the devastating Gul Plaza fire in Karachi, along with a broader rehabilitation package for all affected by the tragedy.

Speaking at a press conference, Shah said the financial assistance would begin disbursement from Tuesday. He described the incident as a citywide tragedy that had left Karachi in mourning and noted that no evidence of sabotage had been found so far, though strict action would be taken if any was discovered.

The Chief Minister explained that the fire erupted around 10:10 pm due to a short circuit inside a shop.

Authorities also reported that nearly 40 percent of the building had collapsed, and the remaining structure was severely weakened, suggesting that demolition might be necessary. Shah acknowledged that no compensation could truly make up for the loss of life but assured the government’s commitment to support the families and victims of the incident through financial aid and rehabilitation.