Slow Emergency Response Blamed in Deadly Pakistan Mall Fire
The New York Times • • world
Key Points:
- A devastating fire swept through Gul Plaza, a busy wholesale mall in Karachi, killing at least 23 people and leaving dozens missing as of Monday.
- The fire started around 10 p.m. on Saturday and burned for nearly 24 hours, affecting approximately 1,200 shops selling a variety of goods including luggage, crockery, and garments.
- The tragedy has been attributed by urban planners and shopkeepers to chronic mismanagement in Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city.
- The aftermath saw hundreds of residents gathering outside the damaged mall, with shopkeepers mourning lost livelihoods and families searching for missing loved ones.
- The incident occurred during the busy wedding season, contributing to the crowded conditions that exacerbated the disaster.
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