A major fire broke out at Gul Plaza, a busy shopping mall on MA Jinnah Road in Karachi, causing heavy loss of life and damage.
At least six people were killed in the incident, including a firefighter named Farqan, while around 20 others were injured. The fire started on the ground floor near a shop that sold artificial flowers and quickly spread to the upper floors of the building.
As the flames grew stronger, thick smoke filled the mall and blocked exits, trapping many people inside. The intense heat also weakened the structure, and part of the building collapsed, making rescue work even more dangerous.
Several people were seen calling for help from windows and upper floors while emergency teams tried to reach them.
Rescue operations were carried out by Rescue 1122, the Karachi Fire Brigade, and Sindh Rangers. Firefighters used high-reach snorkels, foam, and water tankers to control the fire and rescue those trapped inside.
The operation continued for many hours as teams searched each floor carefully. Many injured people were shifted to nearby hospitals, where some remain in serious condition due to burns and smoke inhalation.
Senior authorities, including the Sindh Chief Minister, the Governor, and the Prime Minister, took notice of the tragedy. They ordered a full investigation to find the exact cause of the fire.
Officials also directed that fire safety checks be carried out in shopping malls and commercial buildings across the city to prevent such incidents in the future.
The government announced support for the victims and their families. Rescue teams said their main focus remains on fully controlling the fire and making sure no one is left trapped inside the damaged building.
