Karachi inquiry exposes delayed response, safety lapses, and building violations in Gul Plaza fire
Karachi, Pakistan | Web Desk: The final 21-page inquiry report on the Gul Plaza fire has been submitted to the Sindh government, revealing major shortcomings in emergency response, building safety, and fire-fighting infrastructure.
According to the report, the fire broke out around 10:15 PM in a flower and gift shop, reportedly caused by an 11-year-old igniting matches. Artificial flowers quickly fueled the blaze, engulfing the building.
The first fire tender reached the scene at 10:40 PM, while a second arrived at 10:49 PM. Rescue 1122 arrived at 10:53 PM, with the fire being classified as third-degree at 10:50 PM. Delays in water supply, insufficient firefighting equipment, and lack of safety gear hindered timely control of the blaze. Continuous water supply was only possible after midnight.
The report highlights that metal cutters were unavailable to rescue people trapped on the mezzanine floor, while emergency protocols in hospitals were activated due to the intensity of the fire. Structural damage affected three major sections of the building, and initially 79 people were reported missing, with later recovery of all remains and collection of 56 DNA samples.
Investigators found that approved building plans were violated, including increasing shops from 1,102 to 1,153, narrowing stairways, and reducing entrance doors from 18 to 13. The report recommends enhancing fire brigade and rescue capacity and strict adherence to fire audits and safety regulations.
The inquiry emphasizes the urgent need to improve fire safety, emergency preparedness, and urban building compliance to prevent future tragedies in Karachi.
