KARACHI: Karachi authorities have completed the final investigation report into the devastating fire at the busy Gul Plaza commercial center. The report details the cause of the fire, its spread, and the response by fire and rescue services.
The report, prepared by the Commissioner of Karachi, will be submitted to Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah. It confirms the tragic loss of 79 lives in the incident.
According to the report, the fire broke out on January 17 at 10:15 pm. It started in a flower shop on the ground floor, accidentally ignited by a child. The flames quickly spread to other parts of the plaza through air-conditioning ducts.
The fire department received the first alert at 10:26 pm. The first fire tender arrived on the scene by 10:37 pm. The Deputy Commissioner South reached the plaza at 10:30 pm, while Rescue 1122 personnel arrived at 10:53 pm.
Most of the fatalities occurred on the mezzanine floor. Thick smoke and rapidly spreading flames trapped many people, making evacuation difficult.
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The report was prepared by an investigative committee led by the Commissioner of Karachi and the Additional IG. It includes a detailed review of firefighting, rescue operations, and relief efforts. Statements from victims, eyewitnesses, and rescue officials were also recorded.
The final report will guide the provincial government in determining accountability and planning future safety measures.
