At least 14 people have lost their lives after a devastating fire broke out at a multi-storey shopping mall in Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, triggering a large-scale rescue operation amid fears that several people may still be trapped inside. The blaze erupted late Saturday night at the commercial complex located in the busy Saddar area. The fire spread rapidly through the building, which housed hundreds of shops, fuelled by flammable materials and poor ventilation. Thick smoke and intense heat made evacuation and rescue efforts extremely challenging.

Firefighters battled the inferno for more than a day, with rescue teams continuing search operations despite structural damage that raised concerns of further collapse. Officials confirmed that at least 14 bodies have been recovered so far, while dozens of people were initially reported missing. Authorities warned that the death toll could rise as debris clearance continues. Preliminary assessments suggest the fire may have been caused by an electrical short circuit, though a detailed investigation has been ordered to determine the exact cause. Several shopkeepers and workers were reportedly trapped inside when the fire broke out, as many businesses were operating late into the night.

The incident has once again drawn attention to Pakistan’s poor enforcement of fire safety regulations. Critics point out that many commercial buildings in Karachi lack functional fire exits, alarms, and emergency response systems, despite repeated warnings following similar incidents in the past. Hospitals across the city were placed on high alert to treat burn victims and those suffering from smoke inhalation. Families of missing persons gathered at the site, anxiously awaiting news as rescue teams worked through the charred remains of the mall.

The tragedy has sparked public outrage and renewed calls for accountability, with demands for stricter safety inspections and action against those responsible for regulatory lapses. The Karachi mall fire stands as one of the deadliest urban fire incidents in recent years, underscoring serious gaps in urban safety and governance. 

Disclaimer: This image is taken from siasat.