A large number of grieving relatives, friends, and hundreds of citizens attended the funeral prayer for victims of the Gul Plaza fire, after which the deceased were laid to rest at a local graveyard.
The tragedy occurred on the night of Saturday, January 17, claiming dozens of lives. Political and community leaders, including Jamaat-e-Islami Karachi chief Munim Zafar, also attended the funeral prayer to express solidarity with the bereaved families.
Speaking to ARY News, Munim Zafar said Karachi is still reeling from the devastating fire. He described the incident as a clear example of government negligence and incompetence, noting that many families helplessly watched their loved ones burn. Several relatives are still waiting for the remains of their family members.
Authorities confirmed that 69 victims have been identified so far using a combination of DNA testing and proof-of-presence methods. Of these, 42 were identified through proof-of-presence techniques, while 22 were confirmed via DNA. The remaining victims were identified using mobile phone location data and other scientific methods.
Project leads emphasized that as DNA testing options were exhausted, investigators increasingly relied on proof-of-presence to ensure accurate identification. The forensic process is ongoing, and authorities continue to update families with verified information.
Meanwhile, the Sindh government has announced a judicial inquiry into the Gul Plaza tragedy. Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon said a formal request has been made to the Chief Justice of the Sindh High Court to form a judicial commission. The inquiry aims to investigate the circumstances of the fire, lapses in safety, and delays in rescue operations.
The city continues to mourn the loss of life, with authorities urging families to remain patient as the identification and investigation processes continue. The funeral prayer served as a moment for the community to come together and honor the victims.
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