Rescue teams in Karachi, Pakistan, have recovered dozens of bodies from the rubble of the Gul Plaza shopping center, bringing the confirmed death toll to 60 as of January 22. Over 80 people remain missing, and officials warn that parts of the unstable structure are still inaccessible, complicating recovery efforts.
The massive blaze broke out on January 17. Five days after the fire, authorities continue to investigate its cause while families await news of loved ones. Critics have highlighted long-standing concerns over building safety standards and emergency preparedness in the city’s rapidly developing urban landscape.
Karachi’s Gul Plaza was more than a shopping destination—it served as a cultural and social hub for local residents and visitors. The tragedy underscores the need for stricter enforcement of fire codes and modern safety technologies, from smoke detectors to digital monitoring systems.
Urban planners and safety experts argue that Pakistan’s growth demands investments in resilient infrastructure and comprehensive drills to protect communities. As search operations press on, many are calling for transparent investigations and reforms to prevent future disasters.
For the families of the missing, the days ahead carry both hope and heartbreak. Meanwhile, Karachi’s residents and stakeholders face urgent questions about how to rebuild trust and safeguard public spaces in one of Pakistan’s most vibrant metropolises.
Reference(s):
Death toll in Karachi shopping mall fire rises to 60 as search continues
cgtn.com
