A fire has once again broken out at Gul Plaza in Karachi, with smoke rising from the debris of shops. Police have arrested a suspect on suspicion of starting the fire.
According to reports, five fire tenders were dispatched to the scene after the incident was reported. The fire broke out in a shop near Gate No. 1 in the basement.
Speaking on the matter, Additional Deputy Commissioner South Asma Batool said the building had already been sealed and that the fire started in the basement.
She added that it is not yet clear how many shops have been affected.
Officials stated that teams are attempting to gain access to the interior of the building.
Police said a suspected drug user was taken into custody from inside the plaza. It is believed the individual may have entered the building with the intention of theft, and is suspected of starting the fire.
Officials from the Water Corporation said that fire brigade and rescue teams sought immediate assistance, after which an emergency was declared at the NIPA and Safoora hydrants.
It is worth noting that earlier this year, on 17 January 2026, a major fire broke out at Gul Plaza on M.A. Jinnah Road, which continued to burn for three days and resulted in more than 70 fatalities.
