KARACHI: Authorities are awaiting technical clearance before making a final decision on the demolition of Gul Plaza, as rescue and recovery operations continue at the fire-hit commercial complex on M.A. Jinnah Road, where the death toll has climbed to 27 and dozens remain missing.
The massive blaze, which erupted late Saturday night, was brought under control after more than 30 hours, but officials say the building remains structurally unstable, preventing immediate demolition or unrestricted access. Rescue teams, supported by the Pakistan Army, Rangers, Fire Brigade and civil administration, continue a cautious search operation amid fears of further collapse.
According to the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA), a final decision regarding demolition or reconstruction will only be taken after a comprehensive technical inspection by engineers, rescue officials and fire safety experts. SBCA sources revealed that hot water remains accumulated in the basement, making it impossible to inspect internal support columns at this stage.
Officials said a recent partial collapse of the exterior wall caused the structure to tilt towards Rampa Plaza, damaging two internal columns and impacting the building’s interior. SBCA Director Rehan confirmed that hydraulic jacks are being installed between Gul Plaza and Rampa Plaza to stabilize the structure, a process expected to be completed by tonight.
Once stabilization is achieved and temperatures inside the building are reduced through continuous water cooling, Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) teams will be allowed limited entry to assist with search operations. Authorities said demolition of the most damaged sections could take two to three days, subject to safety clearance.
Meanwhile, the identification of victims continues through DNA cross-matching, as many bodies were severely burned. Police Surgeon Dr. Summaiya confirmed that eight out of 28 recovered bodies have been identified so far. Six victims were identified on the first day, while one man, Tanveer, was identified through his national identity card despite extensive burn injuries.
She further disclosed that the remains of a young girl, identified as Misbah, were recovered and recognized through a locket bearing her name. DNA samples from the families of both victims have been collected for confirmation, while forensic identification of other bodies is ongoing.
Chief Fire Officer Muhammad Humayun Khan said rescue operations may continue for several more days, citing extreme heat, unstable debris and the risk of flare-ups. “This is a very large and complex site. Fire can reignite while debris is being removed, so every step is being taken with caution,” he said.
He added that search teams have been working non-stop for three days, primarily on the first and second floors, but intense heat on upper levels has forced temporary halts in some areas. Khan also confirmed that 32 vehicles were removed from the rooftop parking area overnight to facilitate rescue operations.
“One of our firefighters was martyred in the line of duty. Despite criticism, our teams are operating beyond capacity under extremely dangerous conditions,” the chief fire officer said, adding that cash recovered during rescue operations has been handed over to authorities.
Deputy Commissioner South Javed Nabi Khoso confirmed that 27 bodies have now been recovered, while the number of missing persons has risen to 85, based on complaints registered at the missing persons desk. He said all relevant institutions are coordinating closely, and families are being kept informed through official helplines and DNA centres.
Authorities continue to urge patience from the public and families of victims, stressing that safety remains the top priority before any demolition decision is made. Investigations into the cause of the fire and alleged safety violations at Gul Plaza are ongoing, as the tragedy once again highlights serious concerns over building safety enforcement in Karachi.
