Karachi: Death Toll in Gul Plaza Fire Rises to 26 as Rescue Operation Continues

Rescue and firefighting operations are ongoing at Karachi’s Gul Plaza, where a massive fire has claimed at least **26 lives**, while **83 people remain missing**, officials confirmed on Tuesday.

Deputy Commissioner South **Javed Nabi Khoso** said that the **ground floor and first floor** of the fire-hit commercial building have been cleared. Efforts are underway to access the **second and third floors**, where rescue teams are using cutters to break iron grills and gain entry.

According to the DC, **two more bodies were recovered overnight**, increasing the death toll to 26.

Meanwhile, Police Surgeon **Dr. Samia** stated that **20 bodies have been shifted to Civil Hospital Karachi** so far. **DNA samples of 14 bodies** have been collected, and **seven victims have been identified**, including one through a computerized national identity card. DNA samples from **48 relatives** have been sent to the **Sindh Forensic DNA Laboratory**, while further testing will be conducted at the **International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), University of Karachi**. Authorities also confirmed that **human remains recovered from the site** are being examined.

### Shocking Revelations by Traders

Affected shopkeepers revealed alarming safety lapses in the building. According to them, Gul Plaza has **26 entry and exit gates**, but at night **24 gates were routinely locked**, leaving only **two open**. They said there was **no emergency exit**, and the fire spread rapidly, filling the entire market with thick smoke.

Traders further claimed that **electricity was switched off** at the time of the incident, causing panic and chaos. Due to heavy smoke, many people suffered **severe breathing difficulties**, while several **collapsed unconscious**. Workers and customers were present inside the building when the fire broke out, and many victims were rescued through **self-help efforts** by shopkeepers.

Authorities say rescue and search operations will continue until all missing persons are accounted for, as investigations into the causes and safety violations surrounding the tragic incident intensify.