A devastating fire that swept through a shopping centre in Karachi, Pakistan, has claimed the lives of at least 60 people, with the death toll expected to rise further. The tragedy unfolded at the Gul Plaza Shopping Centre, a popular commercial hub in the heart of the city.
According to authorities, the fire broke out on the second floor of the multi-story building, likely due to an electrical short circuit. The blaze quickly spread, trapping shoppers and workers inside the burning structure. Rescue teams rushed to the scene, but their efforts were hampered by the intensity of the flames and the lack of adequate fire safety measures in the building.
“It was a horrific scene,” said Imran Khan, a local resident who witnessed the incident. “The smoke was so thick, and the screams of the trapped people were heartbreaking. The authorities seemed overwhelmed and struggled to bring the fire under control.”
The death toll initially stood at 30, but it has since risen sharply as rescue workers discovered the bodies of additional victims in a locked store on the second floor. “Many of the victims were trapped and unable to escape the raging fire,” said Karachi’s police chief, Javed Odho.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the blaze, and authorities have vowed to hold those responsible accountable. The Gul Plaza Shopping Centre was a popular destination for both local residents and tourists, and the tragedy has left the community in a state of shock and mourning.
“This is a devastating loss for our city,” said Arif Alvi, the President of Pakistan. “We must learn from this tragedy and ensure that proper fire safety regulations are in place to prevent such incidents from happening again.”
The government has announced a compensation package for the families of the victims, and emergency medical teams have been deployed to assist the injured. The local community has also rallied together, with volunteers and charitable organisations providing support and aid to those affected by the tragedy.
As the investigation continues, the nation mourns the lives lost in this tragic event, and the people of Karachi come together to support one another in the aftermath of this devastating fire.
