Relief from tomorrow, full probe ordered as death toll feared to cross 50
The Sindh government has announced major relief and accountability measures following the deadly Gul Plaza fire on MA Jinnah Road, Karachi, including Rs10 million compensation for each deceased victim and plans to reconstruct the damaged shopping plaza.
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah said relief payments to the families of victims will begin from tomorrow. Expressing condolences, he stated that the provincial government stands with the affected families during this tragic time.
Addressing a press conference, the chief minister confirmed that 15 bodies have been recovered so far, while 65 people remain missing. Officials have warned that the death toll may exceed 50 as rescue and recovery operations continue inside the severely damaged building.
Murad Ali Shah said the fire brigade has now accessed the structure from three sides. While the exact cause of the fire is still under investigation, initial findings suggest a possible electrical short circuit. He announced a full forensic examination, with assistance requested from a forensic institute in Lahore.
An inquiry committee, headed by the Karachi commissioner, has been formed to determine responsibility, investigate safety violations, and recommend punitive action against those found negligent.
Due to extensive structural damage, the chief minister said the entire Gul Plaza building may need to be demolished. The Sindh government has decided to reconstruct the plaza after investigations are completed. A separate rehabilitation committee will manage temporary relocation of affected shopkeepers.
According to officials, 1,017 shops were officially approved in Gul Plaza, and the inquiry will determine whether illegal constructions and inadequate firefighting arrangements contributed to the tragedy.
Murad Ali Shah acknowledged institutional shortcomings and emphasized transparency to prevent future disasters. He also directed provincial ministers to personally visit victims’ families and announced plans to improve firefighting infrastructure, emergency exits, and alarm systems across Karachi.
Meanwhile, a constitutional petition has been filed in the Sindh High Court seeking accountability from the Sindh government, KMC, SBCA, and other relevant authorities.
