CM Murad Announces Rs10M Compensation for Gul Plaza Victims

News Desk

Karachi: Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has announced Rs10 million in compensation for the families of victims of the devastating Gul Plaza fire in Karachi, as recovery, debris removal, and investigations continue at the multi-storey commercial building. The compensation process is set to begin from tomorrow once documentation is completed.

Speaking at a press conference, Murad Ali Shah confirmed that 15 bodies have been recovered, while 22 people sustained minor injuries and have since returned home. However, 65 individuals remain unaccounted for, with the total number affected estimated at around 80 people.

The fire broke out at approximately 10:15pm on Saturday, and preliminary assessments suggest a possible electrical short circuit as the cause. The blaze raged for over 24 hours, with ongoing cooling operations hampered by heavy smoke and partial structural collapse, which made rescue efforts extremely challenging.

Read More: https://thepenpk.com/gul-plaza-fire-six-dead-up-to-60-still-missing-says-cm-murad/

Around 200 firefighters were deployed, including teams from Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) and Rescue 1122, with additional support from the Pakistan Navy and the Civil Aviation Authority. Officials including Provincial Minister Saeed Ghani, Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, Deputy Mayor Salman Murad, and other senior authorities were present during the operations.

Firefighters accessed the building through three entry points, but the structure has suffered an estimated 40% collapse, raising concerns that complete demolition may be necessary for safety.

Murad Ali Shah paid tribute to firefighter Furqan, who died during the rescue, noting that his father had also lost his life in the line of duty. Compensation has been announced immediately for families of the deceased firefighters.

Read More: https://thepenpk.com/gul-plaza-fire-largely-under-control-cooling-underway-sharjeel/

Briefings to the chief minister indicated that the death toll could rise to 50–60, as several missing individuals are feared trapped under debris. Of the recovered bodies, five are yet to be identified.

Gul Plaza housed over 1,200 shops, leaving a significant number of traders suddenly unemployed. A special committee has been formed to recommend rehabilitation measures, including provision of alternative shops so affected traders can resume business.

Murad Ali Shah confirmed that debris clearing will begin immediately, alongside a forensic investigation to determine the cause of the fire. The chief secretary has been directed to formally notify a fact-finding committee, with the possibility of a judicial inquiry if required.

Acknowledging long-standing safety concerns in Karachi, the chief minister admitted that many city buildings suffer from serious fire and structural hazards. Immediate and medium-term measures are being planned, and cabinet members will visit victims’ families to express solidarity.

Read More: https://thepenpk.com/five-dead-in-gul-plaza-mall-fire-pm-expresses-grief/

The chief minister emphasized that responsibility is shared, urging building management and shop owners to comply with safety standards, while calling for restraint against spreading unrest during this tragic period.

Meanwhile, Mayor Murtaza Wahab revealed that the Karachi Water Board supplied 431,000 gallons of water to contain the blaze. Rescue teams noted that poor ventilation and smoke accumulation significantly delayed operations, forcing firefighters to cut windows and demolish walls to reach trapped individuals.

This disaster has once again highlighted Karachi’s pressing fire and structural safety challenges, prompting urgent calls for improved regulation, compliance, and accountability to prevent similar tragedies.