The devastating Karachi Gul Plaza fire has ignited a wave of grief and fury among Pakistani celebrities and citizens alike. The tragic incident, which claimed 23 lives and left a beloved shopping center in ruins, has prompted widespread calls for accountability and urgent infrastructure improvements across the city. Celebrities expressed their shock and conveyed condolences following the fire that erupted in the commercial hub.
The city of Karachi continues to reel from the profound loss. Public figures, including acclaimed actress Mahira Khan, voiced profound dismay, questioning whether the disaster was “an accident” or a glaring display of “indifference” from those responsible for urban safety. She highlighted the pressing need for basic fire safety measures, which are often absent in many urban structures.
Celebrity Reactions to the Gul Plaza Fire
Actress Ayesha Omar emphasized that Karachi’s residents “don’t deserve this,” having “worked tirelessly and moving forward despite the terrible infrastructure and systems not in place.” Durefishan Saleem echoed this sentiment, stating that the city “needs a government that truly works for its people.” These powerful statements underscore a growing sentiment of frustration among the populace, as reported by SindhNews.com.
Prominent author Fatima Bhutto further demanded accountability, noting past instances where authorities were given opportunities to address safety concerns but evidently failed to implement lasting changes. Musician Hadiqa Kiani advocated for strengthening critical, life-saving infrastructure across Karachi and other parts of Pakistan to prevent future tragedies.
Harrowing stories continue to emerge from survivors and the loved ones of those lost. Musician Haroon Shahid shared the gut-wrenching experience of his son’s tutor, whose family was tragically trapped within the inferno. These personal accounts paint a grim picture of the immediate and lasting impact of the Gul Plaza fire.
As grief gradually gives way to anger, cries for meaningful change are intensifying. Citizens of Pakistan’s largest city are increasingly feeling that they cannot rely on official structures for their safety in emergencies. It remains to be seen what concrete actions will follow this devastating incident, and whether it will finally spur the comprehensive reforms needed for Karachi’s safety protocols.