KARACHI: President of Pakistan Business Group (Sindh Region), Convener FPCCI Energy Standing Committee, and Senior Vice Chairman PPDA, Malik Khuda Bakhsh has said that Karachi’s population has now reached approximately 40 million, and according to international standards, the city requires at least 200 to 250 fire stations.
However, in reality, only 12 central fire stations are operational, and including temporary setups under roads and bridges, the total number is just 28. Karachi currently needs 15,000 to 20,000 firefighters, but only 930 firefighters are available.
On average, one firefighter is responsible for the safety of about 1,000 people, which is deeply concerning.
He declared the Gul Plaza incident a national tragedy and demanded that the government ensure the rescue operation at Gul Plaza is completed as soon as possible without any interruption, and that immediate relief be provided to the affected shopkeepers.
READ MORE: Death toll in Gul Plaza fire hits 55: Karachi govt
Malik Khuda Bakhsh said that a neutral, transparent, and honest inquiry into the Gul Plaza tragedy must not only be attempted but conducted with fear of God and complete integrity, and that the facts should be brought before the public.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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