Deadly Fire in Karachi Multistory Market, 6 Dead, Many Missing

International Desk: PNN

A deadly fire broke out in a multistory shopping plaza in the southern port city of Karachi, Pakistan. Nearly 24 hours after the fire started, the fire service managed to bring it under control. At least six people, including a firefighter, died, and many remain missing, according to officials.

The fire started late Saturday night in the Gul Plaza in Karachi. According to city chief rescue officer Dr. Abid Jalal Sheikh, the blaze spread quickly due to shops storing processed goods, garments, and plastic items.

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah said that after controlling the fire, rescue operations continue to search for missing people in the rubble. Earlier, authorities had warned that it might take several more hours to fully control the fire.

Rescue officials confirmed that so far five bodies have been recovered from the four-story building and its basement. Additionally, one firefighter died while trying to extinguish the fire on the upper floors.

Since the incident, anxious families have gathered outside the building in search of missing members. Television footage showed rescue workers wearing protective gear attempting to control the fire amidst thick smoke. Parts of the building collapsed during the fire, making rescue operations even riskier.

The cause of the fire is not yet known. Authorities have stated that a full investigation will begin once the situation is under control.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the incident and instructed authorities to take all necessary measures to prevent further loss of life.

It is worth noting that Karachi has experienced multiple deadly fires in the past, with weak safety standards and illegal construction identified as major causes. In November 2023, a shopping mall fire killed ten people and injured 22 others.