Gul Plaza

Gul Plaza is a large, multi-story shopping center in Karachi, Pakistan, containing approximately 1,200 stores and spanning 8,000 sq m. It is located in the city's business district. The plaza is currently newsworthy due to a massive fire that broke out on Saturday, January 18, 2026. The fire burned for over 24 hours, hampering rescue efforts. The death toll has risen to at least 67, with over 77 people still reported missing. Parts of the building have collapsed. Survivors reported locked exits and panic during the blaze. The incident has raised urgent questions about building safety standards, rescue capacity, and urban governance in Karachi. A police investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire. The event is considered Karachi's deadliest fire in years and has prompted Pakistani leaders to offer condolences.