Karachi shopping plaza fire death toll reaches 28

At least 28 people have died in a massive fire at Karachi’s Gul Shopping Plaza, with around 80 more reported missing as rescue efforts continue. The blaze, which began in a basement shop, rapidly spread through the old wholesale and retail building, which contains approximately 1,200 shops. Many sections of the structure collapsed during the 34-hour firefighting operation, slowing recovery efforts. So far, 18 bodies have been identified, and DNA tests are underway for others. Families of the missing remain at the site, while authorities have closed M.A. Jinnah Road to traffic. Business owners observed a day of mourning on Monday in remembrance of the victims. Gul Plaza shop owners estimate losses of at least 3 billion PKR, with the final toll and total damage to be confirmed after rescue operations are complete.