KARACHI: A devastating fire that broke out late on Saturday (January 17, 2026) at Gul Plaza, a multi-storey shopping complex on MA Jinnah Road in Karachi’s Saddar area, has led to a tragic and chaotic rescue operation. The blaze, which raged for over 24 hours before being largely controlled, caused partial collapse of the building housing around 1,200 shops.
Private TV reports and initial accounts revealed a shocking find: charred bodies and remains estimated at 25 to 30 individuals were recovered from a single crockery (kitchenware) shop within the plaza.
Shop owner statements mentioned personally retrieving remains of about 14 people from the premises, where a large number of women and children were reportedly present at the time of the incident.
However, official sources have urged caution on the exact count. DIG South Asad Raza stated that it cannot be confirmed as 25–30 full bodies; the remains might belong to 10–20 individuals, with some possibly fragmented body parts.
Police surgeon Dr. Sumaiya Syed reported that remains from two shops totaled 21 individuals so far.
Doctors will provide final confirmation through examination and DNA identification, as many bodies are burned beyond recognition.
Search and rescue efforts continue amid smoke, heat, and structural dangers. As of the latest updates on January 21, 2026, the confirmed death toll has risen to around 28–30 (with reports varying slightly across sources, including recoveries of additional bodies and parts on Tuesday and Wednesday).
Over 80–85 people remain missing (some lists cite 81–86, with overlaps or unverified entries being clarified).
Earlier figures showed dozens still unaccounted for, and the operation involves Rescue 1122, police, and other teams sifting through debris.
The incident has highlighted serious concerns about building safety, fire exits, overcrowding, and emergency response in Karachi’s crowded commercial areas. Investigations into the fire’s cause are underway, and authorities have promised support for victims’ families.
