A devastating fire ripped through Gul Plaza, a bustling multi-storey shopping mall on Karachi’s busy M.A. Jinnah Road, starting late on Saturday night, January 17, 2026, around 10:15 PM.
The blaze, believed to have originated from a short circuit, engulfed the building rapidly due to flammable goods and poor ventilation, turning the commercial hub housing over 1,200 shops into a scene of chaos.
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The fire raged for more than 34 hours before being largely brought under control, marking one of the city’s worst fire incidents in over a decade.
Rescue operations involved 24 fire engines, multiple bowsers, snorkels, and over 200 firefighters from KMC and Rescue 1122, supported by Rangers and other forces.
Thick smoke, collapsing structures, and intense heat severely hampered efforts, with teams continuing to search through smouldering debris.
Rising Death Toll and Ongoing Search
As of January 19, 2026, the death toll has climbed to at least 23, including a brave firefighter who lost his life in the line of duty. Dozens more — reports varying between 46 and over 60 — remain missing, with authorities fearing the number of fatalities could exceed 50 as recovery continues.
Several injuries have also been reported, and many traders and workers have been left unemployed overnight, facing immense financial hardship.
Government Response and Compensation Announcement
Addressing a press conference with business community representatives, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah announced Rs10 million (approximately $36,000) in compensation for the family of each deceased victim, stating there can be no price for a life but emphasizing immediate government support.
The loss is estimated around Rs100 billion by the market. He formed an investigation committee led by Karachi Commissioner Syed Hassan Naqvi to probe the cause, with forensic assistance from Lahore.
CM Shah vowed to rebuild the plaza, rehabilitate affected shopkeepers through temporary spaces, and immediately implement the 2024 Fire Safety Audit across 145 commercial buildings in Karachi to prevent future tragedies.
The incident has sparked calls for accountability and better emergency preparedness in the city.