KARACHI: A fire erupted at RJ Mall, situated on Rashid Minhas Road, resulting in the confirmed deaths of 11 individuals and causing injuries to 22 people thus far.
Officials from Jinnah Hospital mentioned that nine deceased individuals were taken to Jinnah Hospital, while one person was transported to Abbasi Shaheed Hospital.
The deputy director of the Accident Department at Jinnah Hospital confirmed that all the deceased and injured individuals were men aged between 22 to 43 years old.
According to fire brigade officials, the fire, which began at 6 am, swiftly spread from the sixth floor to the fourth floor of the building. This led to the burning of numerous shops and the suspension of electricity in the mall and nearby structures.
Rescue officials verified eleven fatalities caused by suffocation. Additionally, eight more individuals were transferred to the hospital while unconscious. There are reports of more people still believed to be trapped inside the building.
Fire brigade officials mentioned the involvement of 12 vehicles, 2 snorkels, and approximately 50 firefighters in extinguishing the fire.
Authorities highlighted the challenge of battling the fire due to heavy smoke engulfing the building. Besides the fire brigade, other rescue agencies are actively involved in operations. However, the cause of the fire in the building remains undetermined.
(Islamabad51_Newsdesk)
