Pakistan: Death Toll Mounts in Karachi Gul Plaza Fire as Rescue Efforts Continue

In Pakistan, at least 26 people have died and up to 81 are missing after a massive fire engulfed Gul Plaza on Karachi’s MA Jinnah Road, leaving the building structurally unsafe for general access. The blaze, which began late on January 17, was controlled after nearly 34 hours, with rescue operations still ongoing. Authorities have recovered 26 bodies so far, with DNA testing underway to identify victims. Survivors reported about locked exits and major safety lapses which trapped people inside. The Sindh government has announced 10 million rupees in compensation for families of the victims.