Karachi Mall Fire Started by Match, Report Finds
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A fire at the Gul Plaza shopping mall in Karachi on January 22, 2026, which resulted in 79 confirmed deaths and left dozens missing, began when a child accidentally lit artificial flowers with a matchstick, according to a Sindh government investigation report.
Investigation Details
The report details notable failures by mall administration and rescue services that allowed the blaze to escalate. The tragedy stemmed from years of neglect, regulatory failures, and safety compromises, not a single isolated incident.
Investigators recorded statements from 19 witnesses, including the Gul Plaza union president, shopkeepers, workers, and security guards.
Timeline of the Fire
The fire originated at approximately 10:15 PM at Shop No. 193, ‘New Tawakal Flower & Gift Shop,’ which sold artificial flowers and was located near Gate No. 6 on the ground floor. Flames and smoke quickly spread throughout the building.
How the Fire Started
Naimatullah, the shop owner, left the premises earlier that evening, leaving his 11-year-old son, Huzaifa, in charge. A 13-year-old boy, Aryan, was also present. Huzaifa reportedly lit a matchstick, which accidentally fell onto the artificial flowers, igniting the fire.
The highly combustible materials caused the fire to rapidly intensify and spread to neighboring shops.
Paramilitary personnel walk past charred remains of the Gul Plaza shopping mall in Karachi on Jan 22, 2026. PHOTO:AFP
