Karachi: The Sindh government has announced a compensation package of Rs10 million per family for the relatives of those who lost their lives in the Gul Plaza fire tragedy, Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah said on Monday.
Addressing the media, the chief minister stated that the Sindh government would ensure the rehabilitation of all affected persons, adding that the distribution of financial assistance to bereaved families will begin from Tuesday.
Calling the incident deeply tragic, Murad Ali Shah said the fire had left the entire city in mourning. He clarified that no evidence of sabotage has emerged so far, but warned that strict action would be taken if any criminal negligence or foul play is established.
According to the chief minister, the fire broke out at 10:10pm due to a short circuit in one of the shops. He said no amount of compensation could make up for the loss of lives, but assured that the government would not abandon the affected families.
Providing updated figures, Murad Ali Shah said 15 people were killed, 65 remain missing, and 22 were injured in the incident. He added that 15 bodies have so far been recovered, while around 80 individuals have been affected overall.
The chief minister revealed that approximately 40 per cent of the Gul Plaza building has been completely destroyed, and its structural condition is so poor that demolition may be unavoidable.
He further stated that 90 per cent of the fire has been brought under control, while 10 per cent is still active, making access to the building extremely difficult. A total of 26 fire brigade vehicles, four snorkels, and over 100 firefighters took part in the operation.
During the rescue effort, firefighter Furqan embraced martyrdom, the chief minister said, adding that the firefighter had been married only a few days earlier. Murad Ali Shah directed the Mayor of Karachi to take special care of the martyr’s family.
The chief minister announced the formation of an investigation committee headed by the Karachi commissioner, with assistance from the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Karachi. He emphasized that the purpose of the inquiry was not to target individuals, but to identify shortcomings and fix systemic failures. Those found responsible would be punished, but no one would be made a scapegoat, he added.
Murad Ali Shah also said that assistance from the Lahore forensic laboratory would be sought during the investigation. He confirmed that the government had decided to implement the Fire Safety Audit 2024, under which 145 buildings had already been inspected.
The chief minister said efforts were underway to provide temporary alternative locations to affected traders, and that business owners had been invited to share suggestions to help them restart their livelihoods.
He urged the media to avoid speculation and exaggeration, stressing that the true causes of the incident would emerge only after the inquiry is completed.
