The Sindh government on Sunday said that around 40 per cent of the massive fire at Gul Plaza has been brought under control, while urging political groups not to politicise the tragic incident.
Speaking to Dunya News, Sindh government spokesperson Saadia Javed said that federal institutions, the Pakistan Navy, and Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) staff are actively participating in firefighting and rescue efforts. However, she said firefighters are facing difficulties entering the plaza, which has slowed down operations.
She confirmed that at least five people have lost their lives in the blaze, while 20 others sustained injuries. According to the spokesperson, the immediate priority of the authorities is to fully extinguish the fire and ensure the safety of those trapped inside.
Saadia Javed said the fire has been declared a third-degree blaze due to the presence of chemicals, fabric, and plastic materials inside the building. Rescue teams, fire brigade personnel, and both federal and provincial agencies are working round the clock to control the situation.
She added that three hydrants are currently supplying water to firefighting teams, but ongoing Green Line construction on MA Jinnah Road has created hurdles, forcing water tankers to approach the site from a distance.
The spokesperson further revealed that only two out of seven exits in the plaza were open at the time of the incident. She said strict action would be taken against those found negligent.
Saadia Javed also said that PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari personally contacted the Sindh chief minister and issued instructions regarding the incident. She reiterated that tragedies should not be politicised, criticising MNA Munam Zafar for turning the incident into a political issue.
