Karachi Mall Fire: 21 Dead, Over 60 Missing in Major Blaze
A devastating fire at a shopping mall in Karachi has claimed at least 21 lives, with over 60 people still missing, officials confirmed on Sunday. Rescue operations continue as authorities pull bodies from the charred building.
Key Details of the Tragedy
- Location: RJ Mall, Gulshan-e-Iqbal area, Karachi.
- Time: Fire erupted on Saturday.
- Casualties: 21 confirmed dead, over 60 missing.
- Rescued: 70 people evacuated so far.
- Cause: Preliminary reports indicate a short circuit in a generator on the fourth floor.
The blaze began on the mall’s fourth floor, which houses call centres and software firms, and rapidly spread to the fifth and sixth floors. Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab Siddiqui stated that rescue workers have recovered 21 bodies, while the search for the missing continues.
“The rescue operation is still underway,” the Mayor said, confirming that 70 individuals have been saved. The fire department has extinguished the main fire, but cooling operations are ongoing to prevent any re-ignition.
High-Level Response and Investigation
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life and directed authorities to provide the best medical care to the injured. He has also ordered an immediate investigation into the incident.
“I am deeply saddened by the loss of precious lives as a result of the tragic fire incident in Karachi. My condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured,” Sharif posted on X.
“I have directed the authorities concerned to provide the best possible medical facilities to the injured and to immediately investigate the incident,” he added.
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has also taken notice, instructing officials to accelerate rescue efforts and ensure top-tier medical treatment for survivors. He has sought a detailed report from the commissioner.
