Sabahat Sarwar
Karachi: The search and rescue operation at Gul Plaza has been completed, 25 bodies and remains which have been identified. The identification of the remaining is ongoing through DNA officials said. According to the district administration, the building has been sealed, nearly 10 days after the devastating fire that broke out on January 17. Rescue officials stated that a total of 73 bodies or remains were recovered from Gul Plaza, while out of 82 affected families, nine have yet to submit DNA samples for identification.
On the investigative front, DIG South constituted a five-member inquiry team. The DIG stated that those found responsible for negligence or violations related to the Gul Plaza incident would be identified and arrested. An FIR has been registered at Nabi Bux Police Station, and investigations are underway.
The search and rescue team revealed that the doors of the plaza were locked from the basement. The investigation and inquiry teams have completed their inspection of the building, and video footage along with other evidence has been handed over to the authorities.
The fire, which erupted on January 17, destroyed around 1,200 shops. One side of the building has collapsed, and officials confirmed that after sealing, the plaza will be demolished.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah, announced a comprehensive relief and reform package following the tragedy, which claimed more than 80 lives. He confirmed compensation of Rs10 million for the family of each deceased victim and immediate financial assistance of Rs500,000 for affected shopkeepers.
The Chief Minister further stated that within two months, alternative shop locations would be provided to the affected traders. He also announced plans to reconstruct Gul Plaza with a revised design focused strictly on safety standards, emphasizing that no additional commercial space would be added.
Acknowledging institutional failures, the Chief Minister said that investigations were in progress and assured that those found responsible would be held accountable. He also announced province-wide fire safety audits, warning that buildings failing to meet safety requirements would be sealed as part of strict enforcement of fire and disaster management regulations to prevent future tragedies.
