Final Investigation Report on Gul Plaza Tragedy Prepared, Key Findings Revealed

Karachi: The final investigation report into the Gul Plaza fire tragedy has been prepared by the Karachi Commissioner and will be presented to Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, sources confirmed on Tuesday.

According to the report, the investigation was conducted by a committee comprising the Karachi Commissioner and the Additional Inspector General of Police. The report includes detailed findings on the causes of the fire, the firefighting operation, and the rescue efforts carried out during the incident.

Sources said the report contains statements and information gathered from victims, eyewitnesses, and rescue officials. It concludes that the fire originated at a flower shop on the ground floor, where a child accidentally caused the blaze. The fire then spread rapidly through the building, particularly via air-conditioning ducts.

The investigation revealed that the fire resulted in 79 fatalities, with the majority of deaths occurring on the mezzanine floor of Gul Plaza.

According to the timeline provided in the report, the fire broke out at 10:15 pm. The first fire tender reached the site at 10:37 pm, while the Deputy Commissioner South arrived at 10:30 pm.

The report reiterates that most of the casualties occurred on the mezzanine floor, highlighting serious concerns regarding fire safety measures, evacuation routes, and emergency response within the building.

The Karachi Commissioner is expected to formally submit the report to the Sindh Chief Minister for further action.