Traders and families affected by the devastating fire at Karachi’s Gul Plaza have urged authorities for immediate support, after the blaze reduced the building and its shops to ashes.

More than 1,000 shops in Gul Plaza have been destroyed in the blaze, leaving only traces of the once-thriving commercial hub.

Authorities have launched rescue operations and are removing debris, while many shop owners suffered heavy losses as their properties were completely burnt.

Former president of the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry Javed Balwani said the business community has begun mobilising to assist affected traders and families.

Preliminary lists of those needing support have been prepared, awaiting completion of debris removal before further relief efforts can be organised.

Tanveer Pasta, president of Gul Plaza traders association, stated that they are working closely with the Sindh government and Karachi Chamber to coordinate recovery and rehabilitation plans.