KARACHI: Authorities have sealed the charred remains of Gul Plaza shopping centre, marking the end of a gruelling 10-day search operation following one of Karachi’s most devastating fires in over a decade. The tragedy has claimed at least 73 lives, with only 23 victims identified through DNA sampling so far.
Forensic Probe and Structural Inspection Launched
The Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) confirmed that experts from the Lahore Forensic Laboratory and the Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) will conduct a thorough inspection of the building’s structure. The SBCA estimates this forensic assessment could take more than a week to complete.
The district administration noted that Gul Plaza had already been declared a dilapidated and unsafe structure prior to the incident. The forensic team will work to determine the precise cause of the fire that erupted on January 17, which rapidly engulfed the sprawling complex housing approximately 1,200 family-owned stores.
Government Response and Compensation Package
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah announced a comprehensive response plan in the provincial assembly. Key measures include:
- A Rs10 million compensation package for the family of each deceased victim, approved by the provincial cabinet.
- Plans to rebuild shops on the site within two years, with the remaining structure to be demolished.
- An assurance that shop owners will be provided with the same number of shops after reconstruction.
- Immediate temporary arrangements for 850 shops across two buildings, with rent waived for one year.
- Rs500,000 for affected shop owners for utility expenses and Rs10 million in interest-free loans to restart businesses, with the Sindh government covering the interest.
“This is a very big tragedy. There is no price for a human life,” stated Chief Minister Shah, directing a committee to assess losses which the government will pay.
Investigation and Accountability
A First Information Report (FIR) has been registered at the Nabi Bux Police Station, citing negligence and carelessness. Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar indicated that while concerns of sabotage or terrorism exist, the matter remains unclear. Anti-terror provisions may be added to the FIR if sufficient evidence emerges.
The provincial cabinet has also approved the formation of a sub-committee, headed by the Chief Minister, to review the inquiry report headed by the Karachi Commissioner. The committee includes ministers Nasir Hussain Shah, Ziaul Lanjar, Sharjeel Memon, and Saeed Ghani.
“Immediate steps will be taken after the report comes so that justice can be ensured,” CM Shah affirmed, outlining the government’s commitment to a transparent investigative process.
