The death toll from the catastrophic fire at Karachi’s Gul Plaza shopping mall rose to 71 as rescue teams recovered more human remains from the debris. The search operation, which has lasted six days, is reportedly in its final stages. South Deputy Commissioner Javed Nabi Khoso stated that teams are currently focusing on the ground floor, where the fire is believed to have originated on the night of January 17. Of the deceased, only 16 victims have been identified so far, with nine confirmed through DNA testing.
Death toll from Karachi’s Gul Plaza inferno reaches 71; search operation in ‘final stages’
Read More at: https://t.co/JaUpWKs8x6— Asif (@asif_words) January 23, 2026
The investigation has pinpointed a flower shop as the starting point of the blaze. According to preliminary reports, the owner’s two minor sons allegedly threw a lit match into the shop, which housed highly combustible materials. The fire quickly spread through the building’s air ducts, fueled by clothing and plastics. Authorities revealed a harrowing detail: 14 of the 16 emergency exits were found locked at the time of the incident, trapping dozens of shoppers and staff who eventually suffocated.
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Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has announced a compensation of Rs10 million for each victim’s family and a monthly sustenance grant of Rs500,000 for affected traders. The government plans to demolish and rebuild the structure within two years. Meanwhile, Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori has recommended the Sitara-i-Imtiaz for martyred firefighter Furqan Ali, who died during the rescue. A judicial inquiry into the tragedy is now being formally requested to ensure accountability for the safety lapses.
