Fire remains uncontrolled at Karachi’s Gul Plaza as traders suffer billions in losses and mourn the dead
A devastating fire that broke out late at night at Gul Plaza on MA Jinnah Road, Karachi, remains largely uncontrolled, plunging the city into mourning.
According to officials, the blaze has claimed five lives, injured more than 20 people, and caused billions of rupees in losses to traders. Fire brigade authorities confirmed that only 40 percent of the fire has been brought under control, while flames continue to rage through the commercial complex.
Gul Plaza houses over 1,000 shops, many of which have been completely destroyed. Deep cracks have appeared in the building structure, prompting fire officials to declare the plaza dangerous and structurally unsafe.
As the situation worsened, traders gathered outside the burning plaza and began reciting the Azan (call to prayer) aloud, seeking divine mercy amid fear, grief, and despair. The echoes of the Azan filled the area with sorrow, leaving onlookers visibly emotional.
Rescue teams continue firefighting and evacuation efforts, risking their lives to control the blaze and assist the injured. Several political and social leaders, including the Governor of Sindh, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Mustafa Kamal, and the Chief Minister of Sindh, expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, offering condolences to bereaved families and prayers for the injured.
