Karachi, Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab has expressed deep sorrow over the recent tragic fire incident at a mall on Rashid Minhas Road, which resulted in loss of life and property. During his visit to the accident site, he voiced concerns about inadequate fire control measures in the building and emphasized the urgent need for stricter fire safety regulations. The Mayor was accompanied by the Chief Fire Officer of Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC), officers from Rescue Unit 1122, and other officials during his visit.

According to Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, Mayor Wahab pointed out that the fire, which started on the third floor of the mall, required the deployment of 7 fire tenders, a snorkel, and a bowser for extinguishment. He highlighted that although the area falls under the jurisdiction of the Cantonment Board, KMC’s fire brigade and rescue personnel collaborated effectively in the response efforts. Addressing questions about the presence of Cantonment Board vehicles at the site, the Mayor stressed the need for a thorough investigation to uncover the facts of the incident.

Mayor Wahab raised concerns about unauthorized construction in the building, questioning the approval process for an additional floor being constructed on top of the property. He emphasized the need for accountability, suggesting that those who regularized the building’s plans should be held responsible for the illegal construction and lack of adequate fire safety measures.

Responding to queries about his role in fire extinguishing operations, Mayor Wahab clarified that while it is not the job of the mayor to extinguish fires, he was in constant contact with the KMC fire brigade and focused on maximizing rescue efforts. He expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the accident, noting that most victims succumbed to suffocation due to inadequate fire control and smoke release systems in the building.

The Mayor concluded by calling for immediate action to enhance fire safety standards in buildings across Karachi. He stressed the importance of human life and the need for responsible governance to prevent such tragedies in the future.