More than 34 hours after a massive blaze erupted at Gul Plaza in Karachi, the fire has not been fully extinguished. Rescue teams are still battling flames amid serious safety risks. The unstable structure continues to threaten firefighters and search personnel working at the site.
Officials confirmed that the death toll has risen to 14, including one firefighter. Over 60 people are still missing. Rescue authorities fear the number of casualties may increase as operations move deeper into the debris of Gul Plaza.
So far, 14 bodies have been recovered. Eight of them were found during the latest search phase. According to rescue officials, all recovered bodies are unrecognizable due to severe burns. The Edhi Foundation said the bodies were shifted to Amanta Edhi cold storage. Five severed human organs were also sent to the morgue. DNA testing will be used to help identify victims.
Rescue sources said around 60 people remain missing. This has raised serious concerns among families waiting for news. Officials stressed that the operation will not stop until every missing person is traced. Rescue workers warned that time is “critically running out” due to ongoing fires and weak structures.
The fire reignited several times on Monday morning. Flames were reported on the ground and third floors of Gul Plaza. Firefighters had to pause cooling work after the building shook. The movement raised fears of an immediate collapse. After inspections, operations resumed.
Authorities said the fire is about 90 percent under control. However, intermittent flames continue to slow progress. The ground and mezzanine floors are fully destroyed. The upper two floors have turned to ashes. About 60 percent of the building has collapsed. The remaining portion is badly damaged.
A large emergency response remains in place. More than 20 fire tenders, water bowsers, and snorkels are deployed. Rescue 1122, Pakistan ambulances, and heavy machinery are also active. The Pakistan Army and Frontier Works Organization are helping clear debris.
Fire Officer Zafar Khan said seven bodies were recovered from the first floor. Search efforts will now intensify. Teams have entered through two entrances despite falling debris risks.
Around 40 injured people received treatment. Most were later discharged. Authorities have sealed the area around Gul Plaza. Only rescue staff and security personnel are allowed inside.
Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori visited the site. He announced an investigation into delays in controlling the fire. He stressed that accountability is necessary, but lives remain the priority.
In other news read more about Karachi Shocked by Massive Gul Plaza Fire That Kills 5 and Injures Several
Officials said operations will continue until the fire is completely out. Large-scale debris removal will begin only after full control is achieved.
