Shah called the blaze a “major incident,” warning that the damage might be so extensive the entire building could need demolition
By Sajjad Shah
KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah announced on Monday that the families of those who perished in the devastating Gul Plaza fire in Karachi would each receive Rs10 million in compensation, while promising that the destroyed building would be rebuilt.
Speaking at a press conference alongside senior officials, Shah described the blaze as a “major incident” and indicated that the scale of the damage may require the entire structure to be demolished. He said that firefighters and rescue teams were attempting to enter the building from three separate points, but the fire had yet to be fully brought under control.
The chief minister confirmed that the distribution of monetary aid to the victims’ families was scheduled to begin the following day. He emphasized that the immediate focus was on correcting past mistakes and preventing future tragedies. An inquiry into the fire was to be conducted under the supervision of the Karachi commissioner.
While the chief minister insisted the investigation would not target any individual, he added that action would be taken should evidence of sabotage or negligence emerge. He also highlighted the urgent need to improve emergency access and fire safety standards in the city. “In such incidents, every expert must be allowed to do their job without obstruction,” he said.
The chief minister further assured that steps would be taken to compensate shopkeepers who suffered losses during the fire, acknowledging the broader impact on local businesses. Reflecting on accountability, Murad Ali Shah said, “We all need to reflect on our own responsibilities. I am accountable to the people.”
CM Sindh stressed that the inquiry committee’s role would be to determine the causes of the fire and identify any lapses, while leaving open the possibility of forming a judicial commission if the situation demanded. His remarks came amid widespread concern over building safety and emergency preparedness in Karachi, where overcrowded commercial buildings and limited access for rescue teams have repeatedly exposed vulnerabilities.
