The death toll from the devastating fire at Gul Plaza shopping mall in Karachi has climbed to 28, as authorities continue rescue and recovery operations amid the rubble of the burned and partially collapsed structure. A high-level investigation committee formed by the Sindh government held its first meeting to review evidence and statements from agencies involved in fire safety, rescue and mall management, with a report due within seven days.
Officials said emergency responders have accessed multiple floors of the plaza, including the basement, first and second levels, while DNA analysis is under way to identify victims; eight bodies have been formally identified so far, with dozens more still missing. Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab noted that smoke continues to rise from the site, and rescue teams are working carefully amid unstable debris to find remaining victims.
The Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) categorically rejected claims that building records were missing and said all approved plans and construction documentation for Gul Plaza are intact and available, including details of exit routes and staircases. A letter has also been sent to the Association of Builders and Developers (Abad) urging members to address fire-safety deficiencies highlighted during recent audits.
Separately, Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori met with business leaders and pledged support for reconstruction and relief efforts, while also calling for stricter compliance with safety standards to prevent future tragedies.