The investigation into the deadly Gul Plaza fire in Karachi has concluded that the incident was accidental, according to the report submitted by police to the prosecution. The findings identify alleged negligence by several individuals and market officials while outlining the sequence of events that led to one of the city’s deadliest fire disasters.
According to the investigation report, forensic experts found no evidence of explosive materials at the scene. Based on the forensic examination, authorities concluded that the fire was caused by an accident rather than an intentional act. Sources also stated that the Judicial Commission’s report on the Gul Plaza tragedy was not included in the police challan.
Investigators reported that the fire originated in Shop No. 193. The report alleges that shopkeeper Naimatullah frequently left his 11-year-old son, Huzaifa, in charge of the shop. During the investigation, authorities concluded that the child accidentally ignited artificial flowers after playing with matches, causing the fire to spread rapidly. Both were named in the case for alleged negligence.
The report also names Gul Plaza Market Committee President Tanveer Pasta, Vice President Ammar Ismail, General Secretary Muhammad Amin, and Joint Secretary Muhammad Ramzan as accused. Police have declared all of them absconders as legal proceedings continue.
Investigators confirmed that the devastating fire claimed the lives of 72 people, while the remains of four victims have yet to be collected by their families. A forensic report from the Punjab Forensic Science Laboratory further confirmed that no explosive substances were involved in the incident.
The report also highlights serious lapses in emergency management. It states that the market administration failed to prevent a minor from working in the shop, did not immediately notify emergency services after the fire started, and kept the building’s main gates closed during the emergency. These failures reportedly delayed evacuations and increased the number of casualties.
Additionally, investigators stated that the market committee president contacted K-Electric to disconnect the building’s power supply during the fire. The resulting darkness allegedly made it more difficult for people trapped inside the plaza to find safe exits. The case will now proceed through the legal process as authorities pursue those named in the investigation.
