South Asia

Pakistan: Karachi mall fire kills 11, says official

A fire in Karachi’s RJ shopping mall claimed at least 11 lives, officials and local media reported Saturday. The blaze, starting early morning in the bustling southern Pakistani city, trapped numerous people inside the multi-story complex.

Geo News reported about 50 people were rescued by firefighters, with more still inside during the incident. An official told Reuters the fire originated from an electrical short circuit in a third-floor generator, spreading to the fourth floor, housing several call centers.

“Most victims were call center employees,” said Iftikhar Abbasi, Person-In-Charge of EDHI Rescue Services. “We have confirmed 11 deaths.”

Additionally, Geo News noted several people injured in the fire are receiving hospital treatment.

In another incident, a school bus accident near Islamabad’s Shahdara area, resulted in one student’s death and injuries to at least 20 others. The bus, carrying students on a trip, veered into a ravine.

Police confirmed the casualty, adding that the injured were quickly taken to hospitals. They revealed that the bus moved downhill unexpectedly while the driver was outside, leading to the accident.