Karachi's Genz protest called after devastating Gul Plaza fire

Karachi, A major protest has been announced for Sunday, 1 February, along Shahrah-e-Faisal in Karachi by Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) and youth groups calling for civic rights and better governance, in the wake of the Gul Plaza fire tragedy.

JI’s Karachi leadership said the demonstration, described as the “Let Karachi Live March”aims to highlight deep public dissatisfaction with city administration and demand improvements in public safety, basic services, and accountability. The party has linked the protest to systemic failures exposed by the recent deadly fire in a central commercial building.

Shortly before the scheduled march, youth-led groups and Gen Z activists have also stepped forward with similar initiatives, staging what they call a “Gen Z walk for civic sense and basic rights” at Seaview, Karachi. Organisers say the initiative is designed to push for better urban management and a safer environment for all residents.

Hammad Tanveer, the founder of the Hamad Foundation, took to X to support the cause. In his post he wrote: “Karachi deserves better and it’s time to prove this.” He added a warning to fellow citizens: “Don’t wait until the fire reaches your door… Also don’t get fooled with fake Gen Z leaders.”

The protests come after the devastating Gul Plaza fire on 17 January, which engulfed a multi-story shopping centre housing more than 1,200 shops, killing dozens and leaving many missing.

Officials have termed it among the deadliest such incidents in the city in years, triggering public anger over poor enforcement of safety standards and slow emergency response.