KARACHI (Kashmir English): At least three persons were killed in fire that suddenly broke out at Gul Plaza on M.A. Jinnah Road here on Saturday.
The incident also resulted in the injuries to 15 people, while reports indicate that several people were still trapped in the building.
According to rescue sources, dense smoke spread throughout the building due to the fire, causing many people to lose consciousness. The deceased and injured were immediately shifted to Civil Hospital Karachi, where the condition of several injured is said to be critical.
Chief Fire Officer
According to the Chief Fire Officer, the fire engulfed all shops and warehouses on the ground floor, after which the fire was placed in the third-degree and fire tenders were called from different parts of the city.
A rescue operation was underway using a snorkel to evacuate people trapped in the building.
Officials said that the fire rapidly spread to the third floor, and there is also a basement market in Gul Plaza, which is causing difficulty in the rescue operation.
Hassan Al-Haseeb Khan, spokesperson for Rescue 1122, stated that upon receiving information about the fire, the Central Command and Control immediately dispatched fire and rescue teams along with ambulances and fire brigade vehicles to the scene.
On the other hand, the spokesperson for the Water Corporation stated that upon the request of the fire brigade and Rescue 1122 regarding the fire incident, water supply was immediately ensured.
Meanwhile, Sindh Interior Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjhar took notice of the fire incident and directed the concerned authorities to take immediate rescue measures.
He ordered the establishment of alternative traffic routes for the convenience of citizens and to ensure access for fire brigade vehicles.
The Sindh Interior Minister directed that a complete inquiry and investigation into the incident be conducted to determine the causes of the fire.
