An ashen dawn on MA Jinnah Road

As dawn broke on Sunday, the true scale of devastation came into view, with Gul Plaza reduced to smouldering ruins after hours of relentless flames.

The massive fire at the iconic commercial centre on MA Jinnah Road continued to challenge emergency teams well into Sunday night, highlighting both the destruction caused by the blaze and the extraordinary courage of those battling it.

The fire erupted late Saturday night at the ground-plus-three Gul Plaza, a well-known shopping hub housing nearly 1,200 shops and warehouses. Flames spread rapidly, engulfing the entire structure and sending thick plumes of smoke across the area. Despite continuous firefighting efforts, pockets of fire and heavy smoke were still visible from the upper floors more than 24 hours later.

According to officials, the death toll rose to six, including three people who died of suffocation, two whose charred bodies were recovered from the building, and the firefighter who lost his life in the line of duty. More than 30 people were affected or injured, largely due to smoke inhalation and panic during the incident. At least 56 remain missing.

Heart wrenching scene were witnesses when the families of victims were infiormed about the loss, others waited in anxiety for a word about the safety of those missing in the blaze. Some traders were crying over the loss while some showed extreme patience.

The fire left behind widespread financial devastation. Goods worth millions of rupees, including merchandise and cash reportedly stored in shops, were destroyed. Once a vibrant marketplace offering everything from clothing and toys to crockery, luggage, blankets, jewellery, footwear, cosmetics and perfumes, Gul Plaza now stands silent and charred.

Despite the losses, resilience was evident as rescue teams continued their work with determination and affected shopkeepers looked ahead to rebuilding their livelihoods. Officials said once the cooling process is completed, a detailed search, rescue and damage assessment will be carried out. The tragedy at Gul Plaza has not only scarred the heart of the city but has also underscored the bravery of first responders, the strength of coordinated institutions, and Karachi's enduring spirit in the face of adversity.

Commissioner postpones marathon

Commissioner Syed Hassan?Naqvi has postponed the Karachi Marathon which was due to be held on January 25. In view of the tragic incident of the loss of lives and property in the Gul Plaza fire, the marathon scheduled for January 25 has been postponed, said a message from the Commissioner's Office.