The massive fire that broke out at Karachi’s well-known commercial centre, Gul Plaza, has entered its second day, with the Sindh government and relevant authorities still unable to bring the blaze fully under control despite deploying all available resources.
According to reports received by Sunday evening, firefighting and rescue teams have managed to contain around 70 per cent of the fire, while flames continue to rage in the remaining sections.
Extreme heat, dense smoke and the building’s unstable structure have severely hampered rescue and firefighting operations.
Why has the fire not been fully controlled?
Rescue officials say the primary reason for the delay is the age and condition of the building, which was constructed in 1988. The structure’s pillars have weakened over time, raising fears of further collapse at any moment. As a result, firefighters have been unable to enter certain areas to carry out effective operations.
Initial reports suggest the fire started in a shop containing artificial flowers and quickly spread to adjacent outlets. A large quantity of clothes, plastic and other highly flammable materials inside the plaza fuelled the flames, making them difficult to extinguish.
Firefighters have also faced breathing difficulties due to intense heat and thick smoke. The lack of proper firefighting facilities within the building, absence of fire hydrants and water shortages further worsened the situation.
Officials added that after a section of the building partially collapsed, rescue operations were carried out with extra caution to avoid further casualties, which also slowed efforts to control the fire.
Meanwhile, teams from the Pakistan Navy, Pakistan Rangers, Rescue 1122, Civil Defence and the Fire Brigade are jointly engaged in firefighting and evacuation efforts. Alongside water, foam is also being used in attempts to bring the blaze under control.
