Fire erupts again at Karachi’s Gul Plaza

A fire broke out Sunday evening in the basement of Karachi's Gul Plaza, a commercial mall, prompting an emergency response from rescue officials, according to Rescue 1122.

Firefighters dispatched at least five fire brigade vehicles to the scene and worked to bring the blaze under control. Authorities said thick smoke filled the basement, complicating operations due to the lack of a proper ventilation system. Emergency teams attempted to manage the situation using smoke exhaust measures.

Tanveer Pasta, president of the Gul Plaza Management Committee, said the fire did not appear to be an act of sabotage. Police have taken three suspected drug addicts into custody in connection with the incident.

Officials believe the fire may have started when the individuals were burning copper inside the building. Authorities said the suspects likely entered the premises during the Eid holidays.

Earlier fire and aftermath

Earlier this year, Gul Plaza experienced one of the deadliest commercial fires in Karachi’s recent history, killing dozens and destroying hundreds of shops.

The blaze drew widespread criticism over poor fire safety measures, lack of emergency exits, and weak enforcement of building regulations in the city’s major markets.

In the aftermath, trader groups and business associations worked to assess financial losses and urged authorities to provide compensation to affected shopkeepers.

The incident also increased pressure on city officials to address structural risks and enforce stricter safety measures in ageing commercial buildings like Gul Plaza.