Karachi, Pakistan – – Police have formally registered a First Information Report (FIR) in connection with the deadly Gul Plaza inferno, terming the tragic incident an outcome of negligence and carelessness as investigations move into a decisive legal phase.
– According to officials, the FIR was lodged after preliminary findings pointed to serious lapses in fire safety arrangements and regulatory oversight at the commercial building. The case has been registered against unidentified individuals, including building management and relevant authorities, under sections of the Pakistan Penal Code dealing with negligence, endangering human life and violations of safety laws.
Police sources revealed that early investigations indicate the absence of functional firefighting systems, inadequate emergency exits and ignored safety protocols, all of which reportedly worsened the intensity of the blaze and delayed evacuation efforts. Investigators are also examining whether periodic inspections were conducted and if earlier warnings were overlooked.
– The registration of the FIR has brought a measure of relief to the families of victims and affected traders, many of whom had been demanding accountability since the fire claimed multiple lives and caused widespread destruction. Several shop owners lost their businesses, while rescue teams worked for days to recover bodies and clear debris from the charred structure.
Legal experts say the FIR marks a critical first step toward fixing responsibility, though they stress that a thorough and transparent investigation will be key to ensuring justice. Civil society groups have also called for systemic reforms, urging authorities to strengthen enforcement of building and fire safety regulations across Karachi.
Police officials confirmed that further evidence is being collected, including forensic assessments, witness statements and technical reports, to determine individual and institutional liability. Authorities have indicated that arrests may follow once responsibility is clearly established.
As the investigation progresses, the Gul Plaza tragedy continues to highlight longstanding concerns over urban safety standards and regulatory failures in major commercial hubs, renewing calls for strict compliance and regular monitoring to prevent similar disasters in the future.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.