Karachi witnessed renewed firefighting efforts on Monday as flames once again erupted in the basement of the fire-ravaged Gul Plaza, a site already devastated by a tragic blaze earlier this year. The fire, which broke out near Gate number 2 shortly after the previous one was extinguished, was finally brought under control after a strenuous battle involving multiple fire tenders. Authorities confirmed that cooling operations are now underway to prevent any further flare-ups at the location.
The Gul Plaza, once a bustling shopping complex in the heart of Karachi, has been sealed since January following a catastrophic fire that claimed 79 lives. This recent incident has reignited concerns about the safety and security of the premises. On Monday, the fire department deployed eight fire tenders to tackle the flames, a reduction from the 12 tenders mobilized during Sunday’s earlier fire at the same spot. The chief fire officer highlighted the difficulties faced by the firefighters, noting that thick smoke hampered visibility and complicated the extinguishing process.
In a related development, Additional Deputy Commissioner South, Asma Batool, provided insights into the ongoing situation. She explained that the fire originated in the basement of the sealed building, and teams were actively trying to gain access to assess the full extent of the damage. However, the precise impact on the shops and infrastructure remains unclear at this stage. The authorities are proceeding cautiously due to the unstable condition of the structure and the potential hazards inside.
Meanwhile, police investigations have taken a new turn with the arrest of a suspected individual believed to be involved in starting the fire. The person, described as a drug-addicted individual allegedly attempting theft, was found inside the premises and is currently in custody for questioning. This development has raised questions about security lapses at the sealed complex and the need for stricter surveillance to prevent unauthorized access.
Firefighting teams also coordinated closely with the Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation (KWSC) to ensure an uninterrupted water supply during the emergency. KWSC activated emergency protocols at key hydrants located at Nipa Chowrangi and Safoora, dispatching water tankers to support the firefighting efforts. The hydrants’ cell head maintained constant communication with fire brigade and rescue officials to facilitate smooth operations.
To aid in clearing the dense smoke that engulfed the gutted building, specialized smoke injectors were deployed by the firefighters. This equipment helped improve air quality inside the premises, allowing teams to work more effectively. Due to safety concerns, authorities have temporarily closed one lane of MA Jinnah Road, specifically the stretch from Tibet Centre to Numaish Chowrangi, to manage traffic and ensure public safety.
It is worth noting that the Gul Plaza fire incidents have once again brought to light the challenges faced by emergency services in Karachi, particularly in dealing with fires in sealed or abandoned structures. The repeated outbreaks underscore the urgency for comprehensive safety audits and enhanced security measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
