A massive fire at Gul Plaza Shopping Mall in Karachi killed at least six people and left 38 others missing. The blaze broke out late Saturday night on MA Jinnah Road. Part of the building collapsed during the incident, according to local media reports.
Rescue officials said firefighters brought 60 to 70 percent of the fire under control. Search operations continue amid fears that people remain trapped inside. Authorities confirmed the recovery of six bodies. They handed the victims to their families. Hospitals treated at least 22 injured people. A firefighter also died during the rescue effort.
Police said teams are collecting details to trace the missing individuals. The president of the Gul Plaza Traders Association claimed that 80 to 100 people may still be inside the complex. He also said traders rescued more than 200 people on their own.
Firefighters faced severe challenges. Teams reportedly ran short of water and diesel during operations. Smoke inhalation and panic caused further injuries among those fleeing the building.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed grief and ordered immediate assistance. PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari called for a transparent investigation.
