Gul Plaza Fire: Search Operation Nears Completion as Death Toll Reaches 71, 82 Still Missing

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Authorities have announced that the search operation at the fire-ravaged Gul Plaza in Karachi is nearing its final phase, as officials continue efforts to locate missing persons and determine responsibility for the deadly incident.

Deputy Commissioner South Javed Nabi Khoso stated that nearly 90 percent of the search operation has been completed. According to the latest figures, 71 people have been confirmed dead, while 82 individuals are still reported missing following the massive blaze. He added that the names of all missing persons will now be formally verified as the operation winds down.

The deputy commissioner further revealed that search activities were temporarily halted to conduct a technical survey of the damaged structure. Engineers are assessing the stability of the building, which remains unsafe following the January 17 inferno.

Meanwhile, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) City Arif Aziz defended the First Information Report (FIR) registered after the incident, calling it “absolutely correct.” He assured the public that findings of the investigation would be made public once completed.

SSP Aziz confirmed that statements have been recorded from Gul Plaza’s security staff, electricians, and other witnesses. He also disclosed that a Digital Video Recorder (DVR) was recovered from the building’s basement, and authorities are currently attempting to retrieve footage to establish the sequence of events leading to the fire.

According to the FIR, the fire was caused by “gross negligence and carelessness.” It stated that essential safety measures were not in place, lights went out during the incident causing panic, and several exits were reportedly locked, significantly worsening the situation for those trapped inside.

Officials confirmed that the names of responsible individuals will be added to the FIR following completion of the investigation. Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah had earlier ordered the registration of the case in light of the tragedy.

Search operations at the M.A. Jinnah Road commercial hub have been ongoing for eight days, involving Urban Search and Rescue 1122 teams, along with support from the Army, Rangers, and civil authorities. So far, 15 of the recovered bodies have been identified.

The Gul Plaza fire left Karachi in deep shock, with dozens of families still awaiting news of missing loved ones. While the blaze has been extinguished, rescue teams and engineers continue working amid fears of structural collapse as investigations proceed.