The deadly fire at Gul Plaza on M.A. Jinnah Road has left the neighbouring Rimpa Plaza in a critically weakened state, triggering fears of a potential collapse.
The blaze killed at least 26 people, while 75 remain missing. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat damaged Rimpa Plaza’s structure, according to rescue officials. Authorities believe at least two main pillars suffered severe damage, increasing the risk of partial failure.
Cracks have appeared across the building. Several structural pillars, especially in the parking area, have already collapsed. Rescue teams also reported a hanging beam, which poses a serious hazard.
During rescue efforts, emergency crews broke through a wall of Rimpa Plaza to access Gul Plaza. Authorities later sealed Rimpa Plaza and restricted entry. Only rescue personnel can now enter the building.
Dozens are dead, over 50 missing, and the fire is still not fully under control. The blaze at Karachi’s Gul Plaza mall, linked directly or indirectly to Dawood Ibrahim’s family, has sent shockwaves. A newly hired peon in the mall admin dept is suspected & has fled Pakistan. pic.twitter.com/npuU8cNecz
— Baba Banaras™ (@RealBababanaras) January 19, 2026Despite visible damage, officials from the Sindh Building Control Authority and the Dangerous Structures Department have not carried out a formal structural survey. No official report has yet assessed the level of risk or confirmed the building’s stability.
Rescue and search operations at Gul Plaza resumed after the fire broke out late Saturday night. City SSP Arif Aziz said heavy crowds were slowing rescue work and urged the public to cooperate. Police have cordoned off the area to control access.
Read: Video Shows Chaotic First Moments of Gul Plaza Fire as Death Toll Mounts
Rimpa Plaza, a 13-storey commercial building, has a history of fire incidents. It recorded two fires in 2024, though no casualties were reported at the time.
The plaza houses shops and warehouses dealing in auto spare parts, tyres, rubber goods, plastics, and other flammable materials. Reports also indicate chemical storage on upper floors, which may have worsened structural damage during the fire.
