Gul Plaza fire victim Furqan to receive Tamgha-e-Shujaat

President Asif Ali Zardari has approved the conferment of the Tamgha-e-Shujaat (Medal of Bravery) on Shaheed Furqan, the Karachi firefighter who lost his life while attempting to rescue people during the devastating Gul Plaza fire.

The approval follows efforts by Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab to secure national recognition for Furqan’s courage and sacrifice during the rescue operation.

Furqan risked his life to save people trapped inside the burning building but tragically lost his life after falling into the wreckage and becoming trapped beneath the debris. His sacrifice has been recognised as an act of exceptional bravery and dedication to saving human lives.

The fire at Gul Plaza on M.A. Jinnah Road broke out on the night of January 17, 2026, and continued for nearly 36 hours before being brought under control on the morning of January 19.

Furqan was among the firefighters deployed to tackle the massive blaze. He had married around a year and a half earlier and is survived by his young child.

The posthumous award honours his courage and service, recognising his ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.