Dolmen Mall Karachi has announced it will provide complimentary exhibition space and kiosks to Gul Plaza retailers as they work to rebuild their businesses following the devastating fire that killed at least 60 people last week.

 

“Supporting our retail community in times of need. We are offering complimentary exhibition space/kiosk to Gul Plaza retailers at Dolmen Mall Tariq Road and Dolmen Mall Hyderi as they work toward rebuilding their businesses. Together, we grow stronger,” read a social media post by the mall.

 

The gesture comes as retailers from Gul Plaza struggle to recover from the tragedy that destroyed the shopping centre on Saturday.

 

The fire broke out at the rear end of the plaza at around 10 pm and emergency responders arrived minutes later, however, the fire could not be controlled for the following two days since spreading to the front of the plaza within 11 minutes.

 

Preliminary investigation into the incident has dismissed earlier claims of a short-circuit and suggested that the fire started at an artificial flower shop where children were possibly playing with matches or lighters.

 

Flames engulfed products in the shop before spreading to electrical wiring, allowing the blaze to quickly move through the building. 

 

According to reports, at least 60 people died in the blaze while more than 80 remain unaccounted for.

 

While authorities are identifying burnt remains recovered from the debris through DNA testing, probe also noted that panic and overcrowding occurred as people rushed to exit points, with several gates reportedly closed and metal grills blocking the roof.

 

The building’s CCTV system was destroyed, reports said, but investigators have recorded statements from eyewitnesses and affected individuals.