Search and Rescue Operation Completed at Fire-Ravaged Gul Plaza in Karachi

The search and rescue operation at Gul Plaza in Karachi, which was destroyed by a massive fire, has been completed, authorities confirmed on Monday.

According to the administration, the building has been secured by installing iron shuttering. Officials stated that if affected families or shopkeepers wish to enter the premises, they will be escorted inside in a safe and controlled manner.

Authorities said investigations are ongoing and all aspects of negligence and carelessness will be brought to light, particularly why doors were not opened even after the fire broke out.

Meanwhile, a copy of the FIR registered on January 23 regarding the Gul Plaza tragedy has been obtained by Geo News. As per the FIR, the fire erupted at Gul Plaza on January 17 at around 10:15 pm.

The FIR states that the building lacked fire-fighting equipment and emergency response arrangements. Several doors were locked, there was no emergency exit, and power outages made it difficult for people to escape. The case, registered on behalf of the state, includes charges such as culpable homicide along with other relevant sections.

It is worth noting that out of 73 people who lost their lives in the Gul Plaza fire, the identities of 23 victims have so far been confirmed.