Death toll from Gul Plaza fire rises to 73 as search op nears completion
Karachi, Pakistan is reeling from the aftermath of a devastating fire that erupted on January 17th at the Gul Plaza shopping complex. As of January 26, 2026, the death toll has risen to 73, with authorities nearing completion of the search and recovery operation, according to reports.
A Decade’s Worst Commercial Fire
The blaze, described as the worst commercial fire in Karachi in over a decade, quickly consumed the multi-story Gul Plaza. The complex housed approximately 1,200 small businesses, primarily family-run shops selling items such as wedding garments, toys, and household goods.
Ongoing Identification Efforts
Deputy Commissioner South, Javed Nabi Khosa, stated the search operation is almost complete and the building will be sealed on Monday, January 26th. Authorities are continuing efforts to locate missing individuals. Initially, 82 people were reported missing, and authorities are urging anyone still searching for relatives to come forward.
The process of identifying the deceased has been challenging. DNA verification is incomplete for 13 missing persons due to a lack of family-provided samples. So far, 23 of the 73 deceased have been identified through DNA matching.
Investigation Underway
Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire and potential negligence. SSP City Arif Aziz stated that statements have been collected from administration, security personnel, and others involved. The investigation is focused on why doors were closed during the fire and why they were not opened.
Post-mortem examinations have been completed on at least 73 victims, with recovery of remains continuing at the site. Medical teams remain on alert at Civil Hospital Karachi.
Government Response and Concerns
Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori visited the family of a victim, Aftab, and pledged financial support for his four children’s education. He emphasized the government’s responsibility to directly assist affected families, advocating for dedicated support counters.
Governor Tessori also stressed the importance of justice for the victims, stating, “If politics is to be done, we are ready, but first an answer must be given for the 88 bodies.”
Police have filed a First Information Report (FIR) at the Nabi Bux Police Station against unidentified individuals. Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar indicated concerns about possible sabotage or terrorism, stating that anti-terror provisions could be added to the FIR if evidence emerges.
Calls for a Federal Inquiry
Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) Chairman Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui has requested Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to establish a federal inquiry commission. The proposed commission would include representatives from the FIA, NAB, NDMA, Military Intelligence, ISI, Nespak, and the SBP.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the search operation?
The search operation at Gul Plaza is nearing completion, with the building scheduled to be sealed on January 26th. Authorities are still working to trace missing individuals.
How many people are still missing?
Initially, 82 individuals were reported missing. Authorities are urging anyone searching for relatives to contact them.
What is being investigated regarding the fire?
Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, potential negligence, and why doors were closed during the blaze.
As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen what safety measures or regulations may be implemented to prevent similar tragedies in the future. It is also possible that the inquiry commission, if formed, could recommend broader systemic changes.