KARACHI: The deadly fire at Gul Plaza, counted among Karachi’s most tragic fire incidents, was accidentally started by a child, according to a final investigation report compiled by a high-level committee.
The blaze erupted at the Gul Plaza shopping centre late on January 17, causing extensive loss of life and damage to property. The inquiry found that at least 79 people were killed, with the majority of victims located on the mezzanine floor. In the aftermath, grieving families were seen retrieving the remains of loved ones in shopping bags, highlighting the scale of the tragedy.
The investigation was conducted by a committee led by the Karachi Commissioner and the city’s police chief, Additional Inspector General Azad Khan. The report outlines the fire’s origin, the emergency response, rescue efforts, and testimonies from survivors, witnesses, and rescue personnel.
According to the findings, the fire began at a flower shop on the ground floor when a child unintentionally ignited combustible material. The flames quickly spread through air-conditioning ducts, reaching upper floors within minutes. The fire reportedly started at 10:15 pm, while emergency services were alerted 11 minutes later. Fire and rescue teams reached the site in stages shortly afterward.
Authorities noted serious safety violations and stressed the urgent need for stricter fire safety enforcement in commercial buildings. The search operation has concluded, the building has been sealed, and one victim remains unidentified despite DNA testing.
