Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has announced Rs10 million compensation for each affected family after the deadly fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi. He also pledged to rebuild the damaged building and support traders who lost their shops.
The chief minister made the announcement during a meeting with provincial ministers and senior officials. Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab also attended the session. CM Shah said the government will take all steps to help victims recover.
He said the tragedy has deeply affected many families and traders. He promised that the rebuilding work would begin soon. He added that the goal is to restore businesses and help people restart their lives.
“I want to ensure full rehabilitation of all victims of Gul Plaza,” CM Shah said.
The fire started late on Saturday in the multi-story building. It burned for more than 24 hours. Cooling work continued even after the flames were controlled. Thick smoke covered the area and slowed rescue efforts.
Parts of the building collapsed during the fire. Rescue teams faced serious problems due to poor ventilation. Firefighters had to cut windows and break walls to reach trapped people.
So far, at least 15 bodies have recovered. Five victims could not be identified. The number of missing people has risen to 73. A government help desk is collecting reports from families.
Officials told the chief minister that deaths could reach 50 or more. The building houses over 1,200 shops. Many traders lost their only source of income.
CM Shah announced special compensation for families of firefighters who died on duty. He said one victim came from a family with a long firefighting history. He praised their bravery and service.
The government has formed a fact-finding committee. It will investigate the cause of the fire. The chief secretary has been directed to notify the committee officially.
Another committee will guide rehabilitation work. It will suggest how to provide shops to traders quickly. It will also recommend further compensation plans.
CM Shah said traders want to restart their businesses without delay. He agreed with their request. He said officials will work closely with traders on every step.
He also promised a long-term fire safety plan. New safety measures will be introduced across the city. He said prevention is now a top priority.
The chief minister revealed that former President Asif Ali Zardari and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto are monitoring the situation. Both leaders want urgent action for affected traders.
Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab shared rescue details with the meeting. He said the Water Board supplied 431,000 gallons of water. Rescue 1122 reached the site within six minutes.
Around 60 firefighters took part in the operation. Sixteen fire tenders and bulldozers were used. Despite efforts, smoke made rescues slow and risky.
Adviser Gyan Chand briefed officials on recovery steps. Local Government Minister Nasir Hussain Shah assured full cooperation with traders.
For full details on the rescue operation, read our news on Gul Plaza Fire Under Control After 36 Hours; 14 Dead as Karachi Shopping Centre Gutted.
The government says rebuilding Gul Plaza will begin after debris removal. Forensic teams will study at the site. Officials aim to prevent such tragedies in the future.
