Islamabad (nytoday): A preliminary investigation report into the tragic Gul Plaza fire has concluded that the blaze was not caused by a short circuit but was likely ignited by a matchstick or lighter. The findings are based on statements from eyewitnesses and affected individuals.
According to investigative sources, quoted by a private TV channel, the fire originated in a shop selling artificial flowers. Initial information suggests that children were present in the shop at the time and were allegedly playing with matches or a lighter, which caused the highly flammable goods to catch fire.
The report states that the fire initially remained confined to the shop’s merchandise but quickly spread to other parts of the building through electrical wiring. Investigators have ruled out an electrical short circuit as the primary cause of the incident.
As the fire intensified, people inside the building attempted to evacuate. However, chaos ensued when some external exits were found to be closed, leading to a stampede. The report further revealed that most shops were open at the time, and iron grills had been installed along the route leading to the rooftop, restricting escape options.
Due to the severity of the blaze, the building’s CCTV surveillance system was completely damaged and became non-functional, making it difficult to reconstruct events through video footage. Authorities say further investigations are underway to determine responsibility and assess safety violations.
FAQs
1. What caused the Gul Plaza fire according to the preliminary report?
The initial investigation suggests the fire was started by a match or lighter, not by an electrical short circuit.
2. Where did the fire reportedly begin?
The fire reportedly originated in an artificial flower shop inside Gul Plaza.
3. Why did evacuation become difficult during the incident?
Evacuation was hindered because some exit doors were closed and iron grills blocked access to the rooftop, causing panic and a stampede.