A massive fire broke out late Saturday at a multistory shopping mall in Karachi, Pakistan, killing at least three people and injuring around a dozen others, authorities said.
The blaze engulfed Gul Plaza shortly after 10 p.m. local time. Firefighters and rescue workers rushed to the scene as flames spread quickly through dozens of shops. Most shop owners had already closed their stores or left the mall when the fire began.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, and police said an investigation would start once the blaze is fully under control. Many buildings in Karachi lack modern fire prevention systems, which often increases casualties and property loss during such incidents.
TV footage showed firefighters in protective gear tackling the fire with ladders, water cannons, and hoses. Flames erupted from windows and balconies, while thick black smoke rose into the night sky, visible from several blocks away.
Authorities said the fire spread rapidly from areas where shopkeepers had stored imported garments, clothing, and plastic household items, which fueled the flames.
Karachi is the capital of Sindh province in southern Pakistan, where fire incidents in commercial buildings are frequent. In November 2023, another mall fire killed 10 people and injured 22, highlighting ongoing safety challenges in the city’s shopping complexes.
Rescue teams worked through the night to evacuate remaining residents and shopkeepers. Emergency responders warned people to avoid the area and allow crews to continue firefighting operations safely.
Officials said that early reports suggest most victims were caught inside the building or near stairwells while attempting to escape. Injured individuals were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
The city administration has pledged to review safety standards at commercial buildings to prevent future tragedies, emphasizing the need for modern fire alarms, sprinklers, and emergency evacuation procedures.
This latest incident raises concerns over building safety regulations in Karachi and the preparedness of local authorities to respond to large-scale fires. Investigators will examine storage practices, electrical systems, and adherence to safety codes once the fire is extinguished.
Local residents expressed shock and grief at the scale of the fire. “We could see the flames from our homes. It was terrifying,” said a nearby shop owner. “It’s sad that this keeps happening in the city, and people are losing their lives.”
As authorities continue rescue and firefighting efforts, officials have urged citizens to stay clear of Gul Plaza and allow emergency teams to focus on controlling the blaze and preventing further damage.
The tragedy underscores the ongoing need for stronger fire safety enforcement in Karachi’s commercial centers to protect both lives and property.
