Search operation enters final stages at Gul Plaza; death toll rises to 71

The search operation at Gul Plaza has entered its final stages, with the recovery of additional human remains raising the confirmed death toll to 71.

According to details, rescue efforts have been ongoing at the Karachi plaza for seven days. The recovery of further remains has contributed to the increase in fatalities.

Sources reported that additional remains were sent to Civil Hospital Karachi for DNA testing yesterday.

During the post-mortem, it became evident that the quantity of remains recovered was greater than initially estimated, resulting in a higher confirmed death count.

Deputy Commissioner South, Javed Nabi Khosa, stated that the search operation is now in its final phase and is expected to conclude today.

According to the official list, 77 individuals remain reported missing; anyone else unaccounted for is urged to get in touch.

Khosa added that the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) team is deployed at the site, supervising all ongoing operations.

Meanwhile, heavy machinery is being used to remove debris from the fire-damaged building. Rescue teams are simultaneously conducting recovery operations for the victims’ remains.

DG Rescue 1122, Wajid Sabghat, noted that search operations on the ground floor for missing persons are still underway.

Chief Fire Officer Humayun Khan reported that a flare-up occurred in the basement last night but was promptly controlled; however, the building remains structurally unstable, posing severe challenges to rescue personnel.

A technical committee has declared Gul Plaza unsafe and recommended its demolition.

The tragedy has displaced dozens of families, who continue to wait outside the plaza, hoping for the return of their loved ones.