Fire at Gul Plaza Claims Dozens of Lives
Karachi, Pakistan – A devastating fire at the Gul Plaza commercial building in Karachi killed at least 26 people, and several others remain missing, according to local authorities. The blaze, which erupted on [insert date if known], shocked the city and raised urgent questions about fire safety and emergency preparedness in Pakistan’s largest metropolis.
The fire destroyed property worth millions of Pakistani rupees and sparked nationwide debates about accountability and prevention.
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Public Figures React with Anger and Grief
Pakistan’s entertainment industry joined the chorus of voices expressing sorrow and outrage. Leading actress Mahira Khan shared a photo of the charred building on her Instagram story, writing that watching videos of the incident left her angry and helpless. She asked whether the disaster was merely an accident or sheer negligence.
Mahira also prayed for the injured and offered condolences to the families of the deceased, emphasizing the human cost of the fire.
Similarly, actress and model Nadia Hussain criticized authorities for their slow response. She said the fire spread unchecked, resulting in significant loss of life and property. Where were the fire trucks? she asked, noting that the blaze reportedly burned for over 24 hours. Hussain described the incident as leaving Karachi residents in disbelief, grief, and complete shock.
Actress Sahar Khan used Instagram to demand that the Sindh government and Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab intervene immediately and compensate victims. She also honored a Rescue 1122 worker who died while performing his duties during the fire, highlighting the dangers first responders face.
Calls for Accountability and Better Safety Measures
Several other celebrities, including Manal Khan and Hania Amir, expressed deep sorrow on social media. Hania Amir criticized the lack of safety measures at Gul Plaza and called the incident heartbreaking, adding that the loss of precious lives should never have happened.
Experts and activists have repeatedly warned that many commercial buildings in Karachi lack adequate fire exits, alarms, and firefighting equipment. The Gul Plaza fire renewed calls for stricter enforcement of building codes and improved disaster response protocols.
Broader Implications for Karachi’s Emergency Preparedness
Karachi, home to over 20 million residents, has faced similar disasters in the past, including fires in markets, residential towers, and industrial complexes. Each incident revealed weaknesses in urban planning, emergency infrastructure, and firefighting coordination.
Authorities launched an investigation to determine the fire’s cause. Meanwhile, social media remains flooded with tributes, criticism, and demands for accountability.
The tragedy highlights the consequences of urban negligence and inadequate emergency services. It also stresses the urgent need for governments and private stakeholders to prioritize public safety and prevent similar disasters in the future.
