The death toll from the devastating fire at Karachi’s Gul Plaza Shopping Centre rose to 15 on Monday, as rescue teams continued clearing debris and flames occasionally re-emerged from the smouldering ruins. The fire, which broke out late Saturday night at the multi-storey mall on M.A. Jinnah Road, was finally brought under control after more than 36 hours.

Authorities said the building, which housed over 1,200 shops across its basement and three floors, is now extremely unstable, with large sections of the front and rear façades collapsed. Rescue operations have shifted to careful debris removal amid fears that more victims may remain trapped.

According to South DIG Syed Asad Raza, 15 bodies have been recovered so far, with DNA samples being collected from some for identification. Over 70 people are reported missing, including shopkeepers and shoppers, prompting authorities to set up a helpline for families seeking information. The Sindh government and Karachi Police are using mobile phone data to trace missing persons.

Officials believe the blaze may have started due to an electrical short circuit, though investigations are ongoing. Chief Fire Officer Humayun Ahmed warned that the building is unsafe and could collapse at any time, stressing that firefighting efforts have now been limited to debris removal.

Several injured people were treated at local hospitals for smoke inhalation and burns, with around 30 patients admitted to trauma and burns centres. Two firefighters also sustained injuries during the rescue efforts, and one firefighter was killed when part of the rear structure collapsed.

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah visited the site and pledged immediate relief and compensation for traders affected by the disaster. Authorities confirmed that 26 fire tenders, snorkels, and water bowsers from across the city participated in the operation, but delays in initial firefighting efforts were reported by shopkeepers and residents.

The tragedy has drawn national and international attention, with the United Kingdom, Germany, and France expressing condolences. Local business bodies, including the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, have demanded a judicial inquiry into the incident to investigate fire safety lapses, emergency preparedness, and accountability of responsible authorities.

Meanwhile, legal action has been initiated with a petition filed in the Sindh High Court, calling for the identification of those responsible and compensation for victims, highlighting concerns over institutional negligence.

As the city mourns, authorities continue to warn that the death toll may rise, and the focus remains on rescuing any survivors and supporting affected families and traders.

© Naya Daur