KARACHI: The death toll from the devastating Gul Plaza fire has risen to 67, with only 17 of the victims identified so far, as rescue efforts remain painfully slow and 77 individuals are still missing six days after the tragedy.
Relatives of the missing have been protesting for days outside the charred remains of the building, expressing deep frustration with the pace of the rescue operation and the investigation. Many families are still clinging to hope, yet with each passing hour, despair grows.
Rescue teams temporarily halted the use of heavy machinery to remove debris due to fears of further collapse, making the search for survivors and victims beneath the rubble even more challenging. Officials, however, say they are continuing efforts to locate the missing despite the dangerous conditions.
Meanwhile, investigative authorities have prepared a preliminary report based on eyewitness accounts and victims’ statements. According to sources, the fire was not caused by an electrical short circuit, as initially speculated. Instead, it reportedly started when children playing in an artificial flower shop accidentally ignited goods with matches or a lighter. The flames then spread to nearby electrical wiring, engulfing the plaza within moments.
The tragic blaze, which broke out last Saturday night, reduced the multi-story commercial building to ashes, leaving families shattered and a community in mourning. With the majority of the missing yet to be found, the grief and anger on the streets of Karachi continue to mount as calls for accountability and swifter action grow louder.
