The deadly Gul Plaza tragedy in Karachi has entered its third day, with authorities unable to declare the site fully cleared as rescue teams continue search and recovery efforts under extremely dangerous conditions.
The death toll in the incident has reached 26, according to officials. So far, 20 bodies have been formally identified, while medico-legal examinations of 19 bodies have been completed.
Authorities have confirmed that 75 people are still missing, intensifying anxiety among families gathered near the site. Officials have also received location information for 39 individuals believed to have been inside the building.
Rescue operation continues
Search and rescue operations remain underway, with Rescue 1122 personnel entering different sections of the building despite serious safety concerns. Officials estimate that around 40% of Gul Plaza has collapsed, while remaining portions are described as extremely weak and at risk of collapsing at any time.
Also Read: Gul Plaza fire Karachi: Death toll hits 26, over 83 still missing
Due to these risks, workers are being sent inside only after strict safety assessments and precautions. Authorities confirmed that rescue teams will re-enter the building today to continue search operations.
Identification process slowed
The process of identifying recovered bodies has been described as extremely slow due to the condition of the remains. According to Police Surgeon Dr Samia, samples from 14 bodies have been obtained so far.
One body has been identified using a national identity card, while 48 DNA samples from relatives have been collected. All samples have been sent to the Sindh Forensic DNA Lab, as well as ICCBS and Karachi University, to speed up identification. Officials stated that remaining remains are present, and efforts are underway to complete the identification process today.
Vehicles from rooftop parking
As part of safety measures, authorities have begun removing vehicles from the rooftop parking lot of Gul Plaza using heavy machinery. So far, 16 vehicles have been removed, including 12 motorcycles, four Suzuki vehicles, and one rickshaw.
Officials say clearing the rooftop is essential to reduce load on the already weakened structure.
The Rapid Response Force (RRF) and crowd management teams have been deployed to keep citizens away from the site. Authorities have declared the area a red zone and strictly advised the public not to approach the building.
Citizens have been instructed to remain in designated safe zones, while security agencies remain on high alert to prevent unnecessary crowding and ensure smooth rescue operations.
Clearing operation to begin
According to the deputy commissioner (South), preparations are underway to formally begin the clearing of the building starting today. Officials stressed that safety remains the top priority, given the fragile condition of the structure.
Rescue and recovery efforts will continue until every missing person is accounted for, authorities said.
Punjab CM express regret
Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has expressed deep sorrow and grief over the death of 26 people in the Karachi Gul Plaza tragedy.
She has offered prayers for the safety, well-being, and early recovery of those still missing, and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.
“The pain and grief of the families who lost their loved ones in this tragic fire are beyond words,” Maryam Nawaz said.
