KARACHI: The catastrophic fire and collapse at Gul Plaza continues to dominate headlines, with rescue authorities reporting dozens of fatalities and cautioning that the death toll could escalate as efforts persist in searching the collapsed sections of the building.
Abid Jalal, Chief Operating Officer of Rescue 1122, highlighted significant challenges hindering the ongoing operation. He stated that crews had completed searches of both the mezzanine and first floors of the structure.
However, operations on the Rampa Plaza side have proven particularly arduous. Despite the complications, Jalal expressed hope that the search efforts might conclude today, though he acknowledged that conditions remain extremely demanding.
So far, Rescue 1122 has recovered 61 bodies from the site.
DNA identification in progress
Police Surgeon Dr. Samia revealed that 50 sets of human remains have been processed for DNA collection, with some identification results now available.
Of the victims identified, 15 have been accounted for. Seven bodies were recovered intact and recognized visually; one was identified through a found identification card, while the remaining seven were matched using DNA testing.
Dr. Samia noted that many of the bodies are in a severely deteriorated state due to intense burning, leading to difficulties in extracting usable DNA. Samples have been forwarded to the Sindh Forensic DNA and Serology Laboratory for further analysis, though challenges in obtaining viable DNA remain significant.
Collection of anthropological data
In addition to DNA analysis, officials are compiling anthropological data from family members. This process involves gathering details such as skin complexion, hair color, height, and gender to improve chances of identifying the remains.
Dr. Samia confirmed that 51 family members have provided DNA samples so far to assist in matching with recovered remains.
Protests by families of victims
As the situation unfolds on its sixth day, women from the families of those still missing staged a protest near Gul Plaza. Crowds gathered in front of the charred structure, chanting slogans against authorities and expressing their frustration over delayed rescue efforts.
Protestors lamented that their loved ones have lain under the debris for six days, leaving mothers and siblings in deep emotional distress.
Updated figures from DC South
Deputy Commissioner South Javed Nabi Khoso provided updated figures, stating that between 55 and 60 bodies have been recovered thus far. However, he warned that the death toll could ultimately climb to as many as 80.
Khoso addressed unverified reports circulating online, urging citizens not to believe rumors until official investigations have concluded. He emphasized that it was premature to label an electrical short circuit as the definitive cause of the incident and added that doing so would not exonerate those potentially responsible. Allegations that building exits were sealed during the fire are also under investigation.
Khoso confirmed that search operations in accessible sections of the building had concluded, but efforts remain focused on collapsed areas where additional victims are thought to be trapped.
He stated that any individuals found accountable for this tragedy will face legal action.
Heightened security and restricted access
In response to public unrest and safety concerns, a significant contingent of police and Rangers has been stationed around Gul Plaza. Access is strictly controlled, with only relatives of missing persons and authorized personnel permitted on-site.
Meanwhile, district authorities reported that electricity in Gul Plaza has been fully disconnected, allowing repeated examination of the affected areas in search of missing individuals.
Authorities estimate that 88 people are currently unaccounted for, with 39 confirmed to have been inside Gul Plaza when the tragedy struck. Postmortem examinations of 48 bodies have been completed, and search operations and identification processes continue.
