Karachi Mall Fire Kills 14, Dozens Missing as Rescue Operations Continue

Karachi Mall Fire Kills 14, Dozens Missing as Rescue Operations Continue

A massive fire engulfed Gul Plaza shopping mall in Karachi, Pakistan, leaving at least 14 dead and dozens missing, as rescue teams race against time to recover trapped victims. The blaze, which started late Saturday night, quickly spread through the multi-storey complex, destroying over 1,200 shops and causing widespread devastation.

Authorities say the fire likely originated from an electrical short circuit in one of the shops, but investigations are ongoing. The rapid spread of flames was worsened by poor fire safety measures and the building’s outdated infrastructure. Emergency personnel, including a firefighter, have also lost their lives while trying to save trapped civilians.

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At least 20 others sustained injuries and were treated at nearby hospitals, with some in critical condition. Families of the missing have gathered near the site, anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones.

The disaster has reignited concerns over urban fire safety in Karachi, with calls for stricter enforcement of regulations in commercial buildings. Government officials, including the Sindh Chief Minister, have promised compensation for victims and a full review of safety compliance across the city’s markets.

As authorities continue to investigate the causes of the fire, the focus remains on rescue operations, bringing closure to affected families, and preventing similar tragedies in the future.

Karachi Mall Fire Kills 14, Dozens Missing as Rescue Operations Continue