Pakistan Shopping Plaza Fire Claims 67 Lives, Officials Confirm
The tragic fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi has claimed 67 lives, officials confirmed on Thursday. This disaster unfolded in Pakistan’s bustling southern port city, with the blaze erupting on Saturday. Rescue teams are still at the site, working through the extensive damage left by the flames.
Details of the Incident
According to police surgeon Dr. Summaiya Syed, many of the remains discovered are unrecognizable, complicating the identification process. Authorities had initially reported 34 deaths, but the toll has since risen as more remains were uncovered.
Ongoing Search Efforts
Rescue operations are hindered by the unstable condition of the building. Many family members of the missing have been anxiously waiting near the site, frustrated by the slow pace of rescue efforts.
- Khair-un-Nisa expressed her heartbreak outside the building, watching for news of her missing relative.
- Saadia Saeed shared her distress, stating her brother has not been seen since the fire began.
Some relatives have attempted to force entry into the plaza, criticizing the response of rescuers. They fear that more lives could have been saved had the authorities reacted more swiftly to the disaster.
Casualties and Missing Persons
The Sindh provincial government has reported that approximately 70 individuals remain unaccounted for. Most of these individuals were believed to be inside the plaza when the fire erupted, as many shop owners were closing for the evening.
- The rapid spread of the fire was aggravated by combustible materials like cosmetics, clothing, and plastics.
- Authorities are investigating the cause, with early indications suggesting a short circuit might have triggered the blaze.
Historical Context
Karachi has a troubling history of deadly fires, often attributed to inadequate safety measures and poor regulatory oversight. Just last November, a shopping mall fire resulted in 10 fatalities and numerous injuries. Additionally, a significant industrial fire in 2012 led to the loss of over 260 lives at a garment factory.
The devastation at Gul Plaza highlights the ongoing challenges related to fire safety in Pakistan, underscoring the need for stringent enforcement of safety regulations to prevent future tragedies.
