Sindh Announces Rs10m Aid for Gul Plaza Fire Victims

The Government of Sindh has announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs10 million to the legal heirs of each individual who lost their life in the catastrophic fire at Gul Plaza shopping mall on M.A. Jinnah Road, Karachi. Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah made the announcement on Monday while emergency response and recovery operations remained underway at the multi-storey commercial building.

The chief minister described the financial assistance as an essential measure to provide immediate relief and support to bereaved families grappling with the profound human and economic consequences of the tragedy.

Addressing the investigative response, CM Shah confirmed the constitution of a high-level inquiry committee chaired by Commissioner Karachi Syed Hassan Naqvi, with the DIG Karachi serving as a key member. He further disclosed that the Sindh government has formally requested technical and forensic support from the Punjab Forensic Science Agency laboratory in Lahore to ensure a thorough, evidence-based determination of the fire’s origin and contributing factors.

The chief minister noted that localised hotspots persisted more than 40 hours after the blaze erupted, underscoring the necessity of a comprehensive forensic examination before drawing definitive conclusions.

On rehabilitation measures, Shah assured full support for affected traders and shopkeepers whose livelihoods were severely impacted, stating unequivocally: “We will rehabilitate all victims of Gul Plaza.” The government intends to facilitate rebuilding and resumption of commercial activities for the approximately 1,200 shops housed in the complex.

With regard to preventive reforms, the chief minister revealed that the Sindh government has resolved to enforce the recommendations of the 2024 Fire Safety Audit—previously conducted across 145 buildings—without delay. Structures found non-compliant, particularly those lacking adequate emergency exits, fire suppression systems, or alarms, will be directed to undertake immediate remedial works.

Emphasising a balanced and evidence-led approach, Shah clarified that the inquiry’s primary objective is to identify systemic lapses, learn lessons, and institute corrective measures rather than apportion blame absent concrete proof. “Mistakes can occur anywhere, and we will strive to rectify them,” he remarked, while assuring that appropriate legal action will follow if any negligence or culpability is substantiated.

He further confirmed that provincial ministers will personally visit the residences of the deceased to convey official condolences and solidarity.

The Gul Plaza fire has resulted in at least 21 confirmed fatalities—including one brave firefighter—with search and rescue operations ongoing and fears that the death toll may exceed 50 as recovery efforts progress.