KARACHI, Jan 28 — An 80-year-old man died after a Karachi fire broke out at a clinic in Gulistan-e-Jauhar on Wednesday. Fire and police officials confirmed the incident.
Police said initial investigations suggest the fire started when the elderly man, identified as Usman, placed a lit cigarette on his mobile phone. This triggered the blaze in the clinic.
The fire was controlled using a fire tender. Firefighters arrived quickly after receiving the emergency call.
Officials reported that Usman lived in the flat above the clinic, which was owned by his son. He was found severely burned and later died at the scene.
This incident adds to ongoing concerns about fire safety in Karachi. Just weeks ago, a major fire at Gul Plaza Shopping Mall killed at least 73 people and left nine missing. That blaze destroyed over 1,200 stores in the mall, including shops selling wedding clothes, toys, and crockery.
The Karachi fire brigade confirmed that they responded promptly to the Gulistan-e-Jauhar fire. A fire tender was used to bring the blaze under control, preventing further damage.
Authorities are reviewing safety measures for clinics and residential buildings in the city. They warned residents to take precautions when handling flammable materials, including cigarettes and electronic devices.
Residents of Gulistan-e-Jauhar expressed shock over the incident. Local authorities continue to investigate the exact cause and assess fire safety compliance in the building. Read about Sindh Chief Minister’s orders for fire safety audits and upcoming inspections across the province.
Officials stressed that timely response by firefighters saved additional lives. The Karachi fire serves as a reminder of the need for stricter fire safety regulations across the city.
Usman’s family confirmed that he was living in the apartment above the clinic at the time. Police continue to gather evidence to complete the official report.
