An official investigation report has revealed critical details about how the deadly Gul Plaza fire unfolded, as families continue to mourn the loss of loved ones and search for missing relatives. The tragic incident occurred on Saturday night and claimed multiple lives, leaving Karachi in shock.
According to officials probing the incident, the fire began inside an artificial flower shop located within the shopping complex. At the time, children were reportedly playing near the shop. The fire first engulfed the stored goods before spreading rapidly to nearby electrical wiring.
Fire Spread and Structural Failures
The report explains that Gul Plaza housed more than 1,200 shops, most of which were open when the fire broke out. As smoke and flames filled the building, people rushed toward the exits. However, closed gates caused panic and triggered a stampede inside the complex.
Investigators noted that a grill had been installed on the roof of the building, which restricted movement and escape options. This obstruction made evacuation difficult for those trapped inside during the emergency.
The report further revealed that the fire spread at an alarming pace. Based on CCTV footage reviewed by authorities, flames erupted at the rear of the building at 10:07 pm on Saturday, January 17. Ambulances reached the site within five minutes, arriving around 10:12 pm.
By 10:18 pm, the fire had reached the front side of the plaza along MA Jinnah Road. Officials confirmed that it took only eleven minutes for the flames to travel from the back of the complex to the front, highlighting the rapid spread of the blaze.
Due to the intensity of the fire, the building’s entire CCTV system was destroyed. Despite this damage, investigators were able to reconstruct the timeline using available footage from surrounding areas.
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Authorities have recorded statements from eyewitnesses and affected individuals as part of the ongoing probe. The report emphasizes serious safety lapses, including open shops during late hours and restricted exit routes, which worsened the situation.
As rescue operations continue, many families are still waiting for news of missing persons. The findings have raised fresh concerns about fire safety standards in commercial buildings across Karachi.
Officials say further action will be taken once the final report is completed. Meanwhile, the tragedy has renewed public calls for stricter enforcement of safety regulations to prevent similar disasters in the future.
