Gul Plaza Fire: Officials Say Only Bones Now Being Recovered as Structure Deteriorates

The tragic Gul Plaza fire in Karachi has entered its final and most critical phase, with officials confirming that no intact human bodies are being recovered from the debris anymore. As rescue and search operations continue, authorities have warned that the structure of the building is rapidly worsening, posing serious risks to rescue teams.

Fire Officer Zafar Khan stated that the condition of Gul Plaza has deteriorated significantly over the past few days. According to him, rescue workers are now only finding skeletal remains and bones during debris removal, indicating that the recovery of complete bodies is no longer possible at this stage. He emphasized that apart from the remains already retrieved, nothing else appears to be left under the rubble.

The unstable condition of the building has become a major concern. Officials say cracks and weakened sections are increasing daily, making operations more complex and dangerous. Despite these challenges, teams have continued work cautiously to ensure that no possible remains are left behind.

A day earlier, strong winds caused the fire to reignite in the basement of Gul Plaza, further complicating the situation. Firefighters battled the blaze for nearly four hours before bringing it under control. Fire Officer Zafar Khan confirmed that such flare-ups highlight how unsafe the structure has become and why extreme care is required during debris removal.

Authorities have now begun clearing debris from the first and mezzanine floors. Officials reiterated that no intact human remains are being found during this phase of the operation. According to them, the focus is on completing the search while minimizing risks to rescue personnel.

So far, 67 bodies have been recovered from the site, a figure confirmed by both fire officials and the district administration. Despite this, 77 people are still officially listed as missing. Officials maintain that while search efforts are continuing, it is unlikely that more complete bodies will be recovered.

Rescue 1122 teams have been working continuously for the seventh consecutive day. Officials say there is a strong possibility that the search and rescue operation will conclude soon, possibly within the day, depending on structural safety assessments.

Alongside the recovery efforts, the process of providing compensation to the families of the deceased has already begun. Authorities have assured affected families of ongoing support and assistance during this difficult time.

Deputy Commissioner South Javed Nabi Khosa confirmed that all recovered bodies and remains have been sent for necessary procedures, including DNA testing in certain cases. He added that while 77 individuals remain on the missing list, officials do not expect additional names to be added.

Officials have once again declared Gul Plaza a highly unsafe structure. Debris removal will continue in a controlled and cautious manner to avoid further incidents. Authorities stressed that apart from bodies and skeletal remains, there is nothing else left to recover from the site.

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