A massive overnight fire at a shopping plaza in Karachi, Pakistan, has turned deadly, with authorities confirming the death toll has risen to 11 people as of Sunday, January 18, 2026.
Search Continues for the Missing
Emergency crews are engaged in a desperate search operation for approximately 60 individuals who remain unaccounted for following the blaze. The fire broke out in the multi-story commercial building, trapping numerous shoppers and workers inside.
Photographs from the scene, captured by The Associated Press, show firefighters battling intense flames that engulfed sections of the structure. Thick, dark smoke billowed into the night sky as rescue teams worked to gain control of the situation and access the interior.
Emergency Response and Ongoing Investigation
The scale of the disaster has mobilized a significant emergency response. Firefighting units from across the city were deployed to tackle the inferno, which presented severe challenges due to the building's design and the intensity of the fire.
As the search for survivors continues amidst the smoldering wreckage, questions are being raised about the cause of the fire and the building's compliance with safety codes. Local officials have indicated that a formal investigation will be launched to determine the origin of the blaze and the factors that contributed to its rapid spread and high casualty count.
A Community in Mourning
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through Karachi, a major metropolitan centre. The shopping plaza was a bustling hub of activity, and the sudden loss of life has left families in anguish while they await news of their missing loved ones.
This incident serves as a grim reminder of the catastrophic potential of structural fires, particularly in densely populated urban areas. It highlights the critical importance of rigorous fire safety standards, functional emergency exits, and regular building inspections to prevent such disasters.
The coming days will be crucial as rescue operations transition to recovery and the full extent of this tragedy becomes clear.
