Gul Plaza Tragedy: Commission report confirms 79 dead

KARACHI: The final investigation report into the horrific fire incident that took place in Karachi’s busy commercial hub, Gul Plaza, has been prepared.

The report covered all the important aspects, including the cause of the fire, its spread, and the response of the fire brigade and rescue agencies.

The report, prepared by the Commissioner Karachi, will be submitted to Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, confirming the loss of 79 precious lives.

According to the investigation report, the fire broke out in Gul Plaza at 10:15 pm on January 17.

The fire started in a flower shop on the ground floor, where a child accidentally started the fire, which later spread rapidly to other parts of the plaza through the air conditioning ducts.

The report states that the fire brigade was informed about the fire at 10:26 pm, while the first fire tender reached the spot within 11 minutes at 10:37 pm.

The Deputy Commissioner South reached Gul Plaza at 10:30 am, while the Rescue 1122 team reached Gul Plaza at 10:53 am.

According to the investigation, a total of 79 people lost their lives in this tragic incident, most of which occurred on the mezzanine floor, where people were trapped due to the rapid spread of smoke and fire.

This report has been prepared by an investigation committee comprising the Commissioner Karachi and the Additional IG, which has conducted a detailed review of firefighting, rescue operations, and relief activities.

The report also includes statements from victims, eyewitnesses, and rescue officials.

This final report of the Commissioner Karachi will be presented to the Chief Minister of Sindh for further action and determination of responsibilities.