Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab confirmed that a comprehensive inquiry has been launched following the devastating Gul Plaza fire, which broke out late on Saturday. The blaze has claimed at least 26 lives so far.
Speaking on Geo News, the mayor said firefighting operations are complete, though flames continue to reignite during the cooling process. Rescue teams are accessing the building from three entry points to search for survivors.
Authorities have reported 80 people missing, while 20 bodies have been identified. The Sindh government announced compensation of Rs10 million for each family that lost a loved one.
Wahab confirmed that an official inquiry will be conducted under the supervision of the Karachi Commissioner. The probe will identify those responsible for the tragedy.
A separate committee has been established to assess financial losses suffered by traders. The committee includes representatives from the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Sindh Local Government Minister Nasir Hussain Shah, the Karachi Commissioner, and the mayor.
The committee will recommend compensation to the provincial government and explore providing immediate alternative premises for affected traders.
The mayor disclosed that Gul Plaza had several construction irregularities. Though the building plan was approved in 1998 for 1,021 shops, it now houses 1,200 shops.
Wahab highlighted that his administration had conducted fire safety audits across more than 600 buildings in Karachi following a previous fire incident on Rashid Minhas Road. However, enforcement faced resistance.
The inquiry will investigate these lapses and determine accountability for the Gul Plaza fire.
Rescue teams continue to work around the clock to clear debris from the basement and upper floors. Vehicles and motorcycles are being removed from the rooftop. Authorities are recovering traders’ goods and ensuring families receive assistance.
The mayor stressed that operations would continue until all missing persons are accounted for. Machinery and resources for rescue teams have been increased to expedite recovery efforts. You can also see how rescue operations progressed in Gul Plaza Fire Under Control After 36 Hours; 14 Dead as Karachi Shopping Centre Gutted.
The findings of the inquiry will be presented in a report to the Chief Minister. “Wherever there has been negligence or shortcomings, it will appear in the report,” Wahab said.
The Gul Plaza fire remains one of Karachi’s deadliest building fires in recent years. Authorities are committed to ensuring accountability and providing relief to affected families and traders
