Newsletters
The death toll from a major fire that broke out on January 17 at a shopping mall in Karachi, Pakistan, has climbed to 67, as rescue teams continue to search through the debris, local media reported.
Efforts to identify the victims are underway, with the bodies transferred to local morgues. Officials confirmed that dozens of people remain unaccounted for.
The blaze engulfed a sprawling retail and commercial structure covering roughly 8,000 square meters and housing more than 1,200 individual shops.
Parts of the complex collapsed during the fire, complicating emergency response and highlighting the risks associated with densely packed, under-regulated commercial buildings in the city.
In response to the tragedy, provincial officials announced financial support for both the victims’ families and the business community. Each family of the deceased will receive 10 million Pakistani rupees (approximately $35,720). Additionally, all 1,200 shopkeepers whose livelihoods were affected will be compensated, although specific amounts for commercial losses were not disclosed.
The cause of the fire is still unknown. However, authorities have recommended the demolition of the severely damaged mall and the adjoining plaza complex once search and rescue operations are completed.
Fires are not uncommon in Karachi’s marketplaces and industrial zones, where poor electrical wiring, a lack of emergency exits, and outdated infrastructure remain persistent issues.
Nevertheless, a fire of this scale is considered highly unusual, according to local media.
Set as preferred source
Set as preferred source
1 min read
1 min read
