Tragedy Strikes Karachi: Fire at Shopping Plaza Leaves Devastation in Its Wake
A devastating fire swept through a multistory shopping plaza in Karachi, Pakistan, leaving a trail of destruction and claiming the lives of at least 23 people. The blaze, which erupted on Saturday, has sent shockwaves throughout the city as rescue teams scramble to locate dozens more who remain missing.Massive Fire Engulfs Shopping Plaza
The fire started on Saturday at Gul Plaza, a complex housing over 1,200 shops in an area roughly the size of a football field. The inferno spread rapidly through stores selling cosmetics, garments, and plastic goods, fueled by the highly flammable materials. 'The bodies were beyond recognition,' said Dr. Summaiya Sye, police surgeon, highlighting the severity of the blaze.
Rescue Efforts Underway
Firefighters battled the inferno for nearly 24 hours before finally extinguishing it late Sunday night. Rescue teams have been working tirelessly to search through the rubble and locate survivors, with city police chief Asad Raza warning that the death toll may rise as more bodies are discovered. 'We fear the number of casualties will increase,' he said.
Compensation for Families
Sindh provincial Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has pledged to provide 10 million rupees ($36,000) in compensation to the families of each person killed in the fire. The government has also promised to support those affected by the tragedy, including providing medical aid and other forms of assistance.
Investigation Underway
An investigation into the cause of the fire is currently underway, with authorities working to determine how such a disaster could occur. The incident has raised concerns about safety measures in place at shopping plazas across Pakistan and has sparked calls for greater accountability.
The devastating fire at Gul Plaza serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing public safety and taking proactive measures to prevent such tragedies from occurring. As rescue efforts continue, our thoughts are with the families affected by this senseless loss of life and the city of Karachi, which is grappling with the aftermath of this catastrophic event.
