Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has announced Rs10 Million compensation for each family affected by the Gul Plaza fire tragedy in Karachi. The decision was shared during a special meeting held on Monday to review the incident and relief efforts.
The chief minister said the government would provide financial support to the families of those who lost their lives. He also announced rehabilitation plans for shopkeepers who lost their businesses in the fire. According to officials, more than 1,200 people became unemployed overnight due to the incident.
CM Murad Ali Shah ordered immediate removal of debris from the damaged building. He confirmed that Gul Plaza would be rebuilt after clearance. A committee has been formed to oversee compensation and rehabilitation measures.
During the meeting, Karachi Commissioner Hassan Naqvi briefed the chief minister on the incident. He said that 15 bodies have been recovered so far. Officials fear the death toll may exceed 50. Rescue teams have completed firefighting operations, while cooling work continues at the site.
Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab informed the meeting that 16 fire tenders and one buzzer were initially used to control the fire. Later, more resources were deployed as the fire spread rapidly. Around 50 to 60 firefighters took part in the operation. The Water Board supplied 431,000 gallons of water to assist firefighting teams.
Advisor to the Chief Minister on Rehabilitation, Gyanchand Asrani, also shared details of relief planning. Traders present at the meeting suggested quick restoration of shops. They agreed that reopening businesses was critical for livelihoods.
CM Murad Ali Shah said a committee would decide how shops could be allocated quickly. He stressed that affected traders must resume work without delay. The government will also conduct a forensic investigation to determine the cause of the fire.
The chief minister directed officials to examine safety and regulatory failures. A fact-finding committee will report to the Chief Secretary. Police said a formal investigation would begin after operations fully conclude.
Speaking to reporters, CM Murad said the first fire tender reached the site at 10:27 pm. He added that 26 fire tenders, four snorkel vehicles, and 10 water bowzers were eventually deployed. Support also came from the Pakistan Navy and Civil Aviation Authority.
Preliminary reports suggest 58 to 60 people were initially reported missing. The fire occurred during peak wedding shopping season, increasing losses.
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CM Murad reiterated that Rs10 Million would be provided to each victim’s family. He said the government remains committed to relief, justice, and rebuilding efforts, including another Rs10 Million support package if required.
