At least six people killed in Karachi shopping mall fire

Fire Breaks Out at Karachi Shopping Mall, Multiple Injuries Reported

A fire broke out on Saturday at the Gul Plaza shopping mall in Karachi, Pakistan, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. According to officials, at least six people have been killed and approximately 20 injured in the blaze.

The fire, which started in one of the shops, spread rapidly throughout the complex due to its densely packed structure. By early Sunday, authorities reported that crews had managed to control about 30 percent of the fire. The South Deputy Inspector General stated that the initial death toll was three, but it has since risen to five, with a sixth confirmed fatality by the Edhi Foundation.

Rescue efforts are ongoing, with officials expressing concerns that people may still be trapped inside the mall. Part of the building collapsed due to the intensity of the fire, complicating rescue operations. The Garden subdivision police officer reported that initial findings suggest the fire started as a result of a short circuit in one of the shops.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have offered condolences for the loss of life. In a statement, Sharif ordered authorities to take measures to protect lives and property, provide assistance to affected traders, and ensure medical care for the injured.

Source: Al Jazeera