Catastrophe in Karachi – RJ Mall fire claims lives, injuries mounting

In a shocking and devastating turn of events, the RJ Mall in Karachi, Pakistan, was engulfed in flames on Saturday, leading to a heartbreaking death toll that has now climbed to 11, as reported by AFP. Shahid Hussain, a spokesperson for the Chippa welfare organization, confirmed the tragic loss of life, highlighting the severity of this catastrophic event.

Massive Rescue Operation Underway

The fire, which broke out on the fourth floor of the six-storey building, trapped over 60 people inside, leading to a frantic and massive rescue operation. “At least 40 people have been rescued,” Hussain stated, underscoring the urgent efforts by rescue workers. The building, notably lacking a fire escape, became a death trap for those inside.

Fire Caused by Generator Short Circuit

The cause of the blaze, as explained by Hussain, was a generator short circuit, which quickly turned into an uncontrollable inferno, engulfing two floors of the building. The lack of adequate fire safety measures in the building is a glaring issue, raising questions about fire safety standards in such public spaces.

Mayor’s Statement and Rescue Efforts

Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab, in a statement, announced that the fire had been extinguished and cooling operations were underway. The emergency response was swift, with eight fire tenders, two snorkels, and two bowsers dispatched to the scene as soon as the fire department was alerted at 6.30 am.

A Call for Improved Fire Safety

This tragic incident at RJ Mall not only highlights the bravery and prompt action of Karachi’s emergency services but also serves as a grim reminder of the critical need for improved fire safety measures in public buildings. As the city mourns, the focus shifts to preventing such tragedies in the future.