President Asif Ali Zardari has approved the prestigious Tamgha-e-Shujaat (Medal of Bravery) for Shaheed Furqan, a Karachi firefighter who died during rescue work at Gul Plaza. The approval followed efforts by Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab to secure national recognition for the firefighter’s courage and selfless service.
Furqan was part of the team battling the massive blaze that engulfed the building on Saturday night. During the operation he put his own life at risk to reach people trapped inside. While working, he fell into the wreckage, became trapped under debris and lost his life.
Firefighter Furqan’s bravery recognised with national award
The national civil award is presented as a tribute to his selflessness, professional commitment and supreme sacrifice. His bravery is expected to be remembered as a symbol of courage and dedication to saving lives.
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Timeline of the Gul Plaza fire in Karachi
The fire broke out on the night of January 17, 2026, on Karachi’s M.A. Jinnah Road. It burned for roughly 36 hours before being brought under control on the morning of January 19.