Pakistan gul plaza fire: 26 dead, 81 still missing as rescue continues

At least 26 people have been confirmed dead and around 81 others remain missing as rescue teams continue searching the unstable ruins of Karachi’s Gul Plaza shopping complex, days after a devastating fire swept through the building. Authorities say the death toll could rise further as debris is cleared and inaccessible areas, including the basement and upper floors , are reached. Identification of the victims remains slow, with DNA testing underway for many of the recovered bodies.

The fire broke out late on January 17 at the multi storey commercial complex on MA Jinnah Road , one of Karachi’s busiest areas. Flames rapidly engulfed the building, which housed nearly 1,200 shops , trapping shopkeepers , workers and shoppers inside. Firefighters battled the blaze for more than 36 hours before bringing it largely under control, though smouldering pockets have continued to hamper rescue efforts.

Search and recovery operations have been proceeding cautiously due to severe structural damage and the risk of further collapse . Heavy machinery has been deployed to remove rubble while emergency teams work around the clock to locate those still unaccounted for. Officials have set up a missing persons desk and helpline , where families continue to report loved ones who were inside the building at the time of the fire.

Survivors and relatives of the victims have described chaotic scenes , saying many exits were locked or inaccessible when the fire erupted, leaving people trapped amid thick smoke and darkness. Witness accounts have raised serious questions about fire safety measures, blocked escape routes and emergency preparedness at the complex.

The tragedy has also caused major economic losses, with traders reporting that goods worth millions were destroyed in the blaze. Many shop owners said the building had undergone unauthorized modifications over the years, potentially worsening safety risks.

In response, the Sindh government has announced compensation of Rs 10 million for the families of those who died and pledged continued support for affected families. Provincial authorities and Karachi officials have ordered a formal investigation into the cause of the fire, with early indications pointing to a possible electrical fault , while also promising action against those responsible for safety violations .

As rescue operations continue, the Gul Plaza fire has reignited public anger over lax enforcement of building codes and fire safety regulations in Pakistan’s largest city, with growing calls for accountability and reforms to prevent similar disasters in the future.