Karachi (Bureau Report):
The Commissioner Karachi and Deputy Commissioner South finally submitted a report to Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, 18 hours after the fire incident at Gul Plaza. According to the report, more than 1,200 shops were destroyed in the fire, which occurred between 9:45 p.m. and 10:15 p.m.
The briefing informed the Chief Minister that six people lost their lives while 22 others were injured. All the injured were transferred to the Burns Ward of Civil Hospital Karachi. Firefighting operations involved 22 fire brigade vehicles, 10 water bowsers, and four snorkel vehicles, while Rescue 1122 deployed 33 ambulances to assist in the operation. The fire brigade managed to bring 60 to 70 percent of the blaze under control.
Chief Minister Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah expressed deep sorrow over the loss of precious human lives and extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. He also expressed regret over the massive financial losses caused by the incident.
Murad Ali Shah paid tribute to firefighter Furqan Ali, who was martyred while fighting the fire, and praised the bravery of firefighters who risked their lives to save citizens. He directed that the injured receive the best possible medical care and ordered that rescue and cooling operations continue until the fire is fully extinguished. The Chief Minister instructed the district administration, police, and rescue agencies to continue their operations.
He expressed profound grief over the loss of life and emphasized that authorities must work until the fire is completely extinguished and the situation returns to normal. An investigation will be conducted to determine the cause of the incident. The Chief Minister also stressed that preventive measures must be strengthened to avoid similar incidents in the future, and all institutions must remain alert and prepared to protect the lives and property of the public. He assured that the Sindh government has never abandoned the business community and will continue to support it.