Karachi witnessed a horrific tragedy as Gul Plaza, a major shopping and trade centre, caught fire. The inferno engulfed the building entirely, reducing it to rubble and causing massive destruction. At least 14 people lost their lives, while several others were injured. Authorities fear the death toll may rise further, as dozens remain reported missing.
The fire erupted on Saturday night and raged uncontrollably for nearly 33 hours before emergency teams managed to bring it under control on Monday morning. Initial reports suggest that financial losses caused by the blaze could amount to billions of rupees. The incident has left the city in shock and mourning.
Pakistani Celebrities Express Heartfelt Condolences
Many Pakistani celebrities took to social media to express sorrow and grief over the tragedy. Renowned actor Nauman Ijaz described the incident as a moment of grief for the entire nation and prayed for strength for those affected.
Actress Sajal Aly shared that she was “heartbroken” by the fire and offered prayers for the victims and their families.
Cricketer Haris Rauf also expressed devastation over the loss of precious lives, praying for patience and resilience for those impacted.
Criticism Over Safety and Response
Haris Rauf used social media to voice concerns over the response efforts. He criticized the lack of fire safety, delayed rescue operations, and systemic failures that hindered saving lives.
Similarly, actor Ali Abbas called the tragedy a reflection of the city’s state of affairs. He urged citizens to choose representatives wisely to prevent future disasters.
Amna Zahid Ahmed, wife of actor Zahid Ahmed, also lamented the incident, calling the neglect faced by the city “unimaginable.” These reactions underline a growing public concern regarding safety standards and accountability in Karachi.
Wider Impact and Public Reactions
The Gul Plaza fire has sparked widespread grief, with social media flooded by messages of sympathy and prayers. Celebrities and citizens alike have highlighted the urgent need for better safety protocols and effective disaster management systems.
Furthermore, the tragedy has raised discussions about urban planning and emergency preparedness, emphasizing that stronger measures could prevent such catastrophic losses in the future.
Conclusion
The Gul Plaza fire stands as a stark reminder of the city’s vulnerabilities and the human cost of negligence. While authorities continue rescue and relief operations, the nation mourns the lives lost. Public calls for accountability and improved safety are growing louder. In times of tragedy, solidarity and swift action remain crucial to protect lives and restore trust.
