*Deadly Fire at Gul Plaza on MA Jinnah Road Claims Six Lives, 58 Still Missing as Building Partially Collapses*

Karachi (Qudrat Daily): A massive fire that broke out late Saturday night at Gul Plaza, a major shopping mall located on MA Jinnah Road, has resulted in the partial collapse of the building, leaving at least six people dead, 30 injured, and 58 still missing, officials said.

The blaze erupted around 10:15 pm and quickly intensified, spreading through the basement, ground floor, and up to the third floor of the plaza. Despite the rapid response by fire brigade units, the fire grew out of control, leading to the collapse of two sections of the building. Among the deceased is a firefighter who lost his life during rescue operations.

Hospital sources said that several people affected by smoke inhalation were provided first aid and discharged, while others with serious injuries were shifted to burns units and trauma centers. Two firefighters, identified as Irshad and Bilal, are under treatment at PNS Shifa Hospital. Overall, 30 injured individuals were brought to various hospitals across the city.

According to Chhipa sources, the deceased include Kashif (40), Faraz (55), Muhammad Aamir (30), Furqan (25), and others. Authorities fear the death toll may rise as rescue teams continue to search through the debris.

Karachi Commissioner said that nearly 90 percent of the fire has been brought under control and cooling operations will begin shortly. However, Deputy Commissioner officials confirmed that complaints have been received regarding 58 missing persons. The Gul Plaza Traders Association estimated that between 80 and 100 people may have been inside the building at the time of the incident.

Chief Minister Sindh Murad Ali Shah visited the site and said that 26 fire tenders, four snorkels, and 10 water bowsers took part in the firefighting operation, with support from the Pakistan Navy and Civil Aviation Authority. He termed the incident tragic and confirmed that preliminary reports suggest the fire may have been triggered by a short circuit, though the final cause will be determined after cooling and investigation.

DIG South said the incident was classified as a third-degree fire and confirmed that Gul Plaza housed around 1,200 shops. Police, Rangers, rescue agencies, and district administration remain deployed at the site, while a special police helpline has been established for missing persons.

Fire Brigade officials said that due to the unstable condition of the structure, rescue teams could not enter the building fully. Heavy machinery has been deployed by the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation to assist in debris removal.

The Citizens-Police Liaison Committee (CPLC) has set up a help desk at Civil Hospital Karachi to assist families of missing persons. Officials said DNA testing will be used to identify bodies that are beyond recognition.

Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal, Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab, Speaker Sindh Assembly Awais Qadir Shah, and Opposition Leader Ali Khurshidi expressed deep grief over the loss of lives and directed authorities to ensure all possible assistance to victims and their families.

Rescue operations are ongoing, and authorities fear further casualties as teams continue efforts to locate those still trapped under the rubble.