Web Desk: A fresh fire broke out in the basement of the already damaged Gul Plaza building on M.A. Jinnah Road, intensifying concerns over structural safety and fire risks in the area, officials said on Sunday.
According to police and rescue authorities, emergency teams responded swiftly after reports emerged of smoke billowing from shops located in a link street adjacent to the plaza. The blaze, which appears to have started in one of the basement shops, sent thick smoke into surrounding areas, drawing a large crowd of onlookers.
Police from the Garden area stated that part of the structure may have collapsed internally, potentially contributing to the renewed fire. However, they added that the exact cause of the incident remains unclear and will only be determined once firefighting operations are fully completed.
Meanwhile, law enforcement personnel cordoned off the site and pushed back civilians gathering near the affected building to prevent any casualties. Rescue teams continued efforts to contain the fire and assess the extent of the damage.
The incident follows a previous fire that had already left sections of Gul Plaza severely damaged. Authorities have yet to confirm whether the latest blaze is linked to residual heat, structural instability, or other hazards within the compromised building.
As investigations continue, officials urged the public to avoid the area and allow emergency crews to carry out their operations without obstruction.
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