Karachi, Pakistan – Web Desk: The Gul Plaza fire case saw significant developments today as four eyewitnesses, including three salesmen and a 13-year-old student, recorded their statements before Judicial Magistrate South, Asim Aslam. The statements shed new light on the tragic fire that claimed multiple lives on January 17.
Eyewitnesses Aryan, Talha, Waheed, and Hamza provided detailed accounts of the events leading to the fire. Aryan, the 13-year-old student, revealed that the fire started when Hazifa, left alone at his father’s shop, was playing with matchboxes. Aryan stated he had gone to say goodbye to Hazifa around 5 PM and noticed him playing with matches. Despite previous warnings from shopkeepers, Hazifa’s actions reportedly triggered a more intense fire later in the evening. Aryan also recounted that his friend Samad, who was playing nearby, tragically lost his life in the blaze.
Talha stated that while he was conversing at his shop, flames suddenly erupted in a nearby flower shop. He initially attempted to douse the fire but had to prioritize his safety due to the intensity of the blaze. Waheed added that he heard children fighting before noticing the fire and tried to remove flowers from the shop to prevent its spread. Despite efforts, the fire intensified rapidly, prompting him to evacuate.
Hamza confirmed that he and others were working on accounts when the fire erupted at shop number 193. Despite attempts to control it with water, the fire remained uncontrollable, forcing everyone to flee for safety.
Judicial Magistrate Asim Aslam has officially recorded the witnesses’ statements as part of the case evidence. The court has now adjourned the hearing for the next session.
The statements provide critical insight into the chain of events that led to the Gul Plaza tragedy, highlighting issues of safety protocols and supervision, particularly in shops frequented by children. The case continues to draw attention across Pakistan, with calls for stricter safety measures in commercial complexes to prevent similar incidents in the future.
