By Our Correspondent
A devastating fire at a major shopping mall in Karachi, Pakistan, has claimed the lives of at least 21 people, while more than 60 others remain missing, according to government officials. Emergency responders continued search and recovery operations on Monday amid fears that the death toll could increase.
The fire broke out late Saturday night and spread rapidly through the multi-storey commercial complex. Thick smoke filled the building within minutes, trapping shoppers and employees inside. Several survivors said they were caught off guard as flames moved quickly across floors, cutting off escape routes and causing widespread panic.
Rescue teams reported that many victims were unable to escape due to locked or blocked exits, narrow stairways, and a lack of proper emergency ventilation. Firefighters faced extreme heat and toxic smoke while battling the blaze for several hours before it was brought under control. Parts of the building suffered serious structural damage, making rescue efforts slow and dangerous.
Outside the mall and at nearby hospitals, relatives of the missing gathered anxiously, hoping for news of their loved ones. Survivors described chaotic scenes inside the mall, with visibility reduced to near zero and people struggling to find exits as smoke spread rapidly.
Authorities said preliminary investigations suggest the fire may have been caused by an electrical fault, though the exact cause is still under investigation. A formal inquiry has been launched to determine whether safety regulations were violated and to assess the emergency response.
The provincial government in Pakistan announced financial compensation for the families of those killed and promised strict action against anyone found responsible. Officials have also ordered inspections of shopping malls and commercial buildings across Karachi to ensure compliance with fire safety standards.
The tragedy has once again highlighted ongoing concerns over building safety and enforcement in Pakistan. As rescue operations continue, the nation mourns the victims while calls grow louder for stronger regulations to prevent similar disasters in the future.
