The Karachi Police have officially registered a First Information Report (FIR) following the catastrophic fire at Gul Plaza, citing extreme negligence and a lack of safety measures.
The blaze, which ignited on the night of January 17, burned for nearly 48 hours, leaving the iconic shopping mall in ruins and claiming at least 71 lives.
The case was registered at the Nabi Bux police station on behalf of the state, through SHO Inspector Nawaz Ali Zardari.
Investigations reveal the fire started around 10:30 PM in Shop No. 193, a flower and gift store on the ground floor, before rapidly engulfing the entire ground-plus-three-story structure.
The report highlights a “criminal” lack of emergency arrangements. The plaza reportedly had no proper firefighting equipment and no emergency exits, making evacuation nearly impossible once the electricity supply was cut.
The police have categorized the tragedy as a direct result of “carelessness and negligence.”
With parts of the building having collapsed, the FIR warns that the death toll could rise further as rescue teams continue to clear the debris.
Legal Action
The case has been filed under several sections of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC).
Section 322: Manslaughter (punishment for murder without intention).
Section 337-H(i): Punishment for hurt by rash or negligent act.
Section 436: Mischief by fire or explosive substance with intent to destroy a house/building.
Section 427: Mischief causing damage to the amount of fifty rupees or upwards.
While the FIR is currently registered against unidentified persons, authorities are expected to shift focus toward the building’s management and relevant regulatory bodies that approved the structure’s safety protocols.
