Karachi: The fire that broke out in a shopping mall on Rashid Minhas Road has been brought under control.
The Fire Brigade Control Room reports that the fire has been completely extinguished, and rescue operations are underway to evacuate people.
To gain control over the fire in the shopping mall, the Fire Brigade deployed 12 vehicles, approximately 50 firefighters, and 2 snorkels.
Authorities are concerned about the possibility of more people being trapped in the plaza, and the cause of the fire is yet to be determined.
Rescue officials report that 10 people have lost their lives in the incident, with 8 bodies taken to Jinnah Hospital, 1 to the Civil Hospital, and 1 to Abbasi Shaheed Hospital. Additionally, 46 people have been rescued so far.
The injured have been transported to the hospital in an unconscious state, and the condition of 6 individuals who were rescued is critical.
The Deputy Director of Jinnah Hospital's Department of Accidents stated that all the deceased and injured are males, aged between 22 and 43.
Rescue officials reveal that 9 people have been severely affected by smoke inhalation and are undergoing treatment in the hospital.
The fire in the shopping center on Rashid Minhas Road spread from the sixth floor to the fourth floor, resulting in the burning of numerous shops.
Sindh Chief Minister expresses deep sorrow over the loss of lives due to the fire.
On the other hand, the spokesperson for the Sindh Chief Minister stated that Justice (Retd.) Makhdoom Bāqir took notice of the fire in the shopping center.
The spokesperson mentioned that the Sindh Chief Minister, expressing profound grief over the deaths of 9 individuals, has directed the Karachi Commissioner to ensure the safe rescue of trapped people.
Justice (Retd.) Makhdoom Bāqir emphasized the need for immediate measures to control the fire, efforts to minimize further losses, and highlighted the government's responsibility for the lives and property of the people. He called for the provision of immediate medical assistance to the injured.
This building had a fire incident 2 years ago: Chief Fire Officer.
Chief Fire Officer Mubin Ahmed stated that this building had a fire incident for the second time; a fire had occurred in the same building two years ago.
He mentioned that in buildings of this kind, cutting off electricity during a fire leads to darkness, causing panic among the public, and chaos ensues.
The Chief Fire Officer stated that it will be known after the completion of the rescue operation whether fire safety equipment was present or not.
He also mentioned that a search operation is ongoing in the building, and it may take more time for cooling.
