The death toll from a shopping mall fire in Pakistan's southern port city of Karachi has climbed to 60, officials said Wednesday, January 21, 2026. At least 30 bodies were recovered from a mezzanine floor of the multi-storey complex, according to senior police official Syed Asad Raza.
Rescuers are still searching for missing individuals under collapsed sections, using heavy machinery to clear debris. Thick smoke and intense heat have made it difficult to reach some areas of the damaged structure. One wing of the building has been cleared, while teams continue to comb through the remaining sections.
Karachi Commissioner Syed Hassan Naqvi said authorities have launched a thorough investigation, exploring multiple angles to determine the cause of the blaze. "We are working around the clock to uncover every detail," Naqvi said, as officials aim to prevent future tragedies.
As Karachi mourns, the incident underscores the urgent need for improved fire safety standards in the region's busy commercial hubs. Local leaders are calling for stricter enforcement of building codes and better emergency preparedness.
Experts warn that growing urban density and aging infrastructure can strain fire prevention measures—a challenge for many megacities worldwide. The Karachi tragedy highlights the importance of regular safety drills, up-to-date alarm systems, and clear evacuation routes in commercial centers.
Families of the missing continue to wait for word as rescue teams press on, determined to bring closure to those affected by the tragedy.
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Death toll from shopping mall fire in Pakistan's Karachi rises to 60
cgtn.com
