Sindh govt announces Rs7 billion package for Gul Plaza fire victims

KARACHI: The government of Sindh has announced a comprehensive Rs7 billion financial package for victims of the Gul Plaza fire tragedy, with Rs5.6 billion already secured and over Rs511 million distributed among affected families.

Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah made the announcement while speaking at a ceremony in Karachi, where he said the government remained committed to rehabilitation and long-term recovery efforts following the devastating incident.

The fire, which broke out in January at a commercial shopping centre, claimed more than 70 lives and destroyed hundreds of shops.

The chief minister said compensation of Rs10 million each was announced for the families of 72 deceased victims, with payments completed in 64 cases. Four cases are under verification, while another four are pending due to legal heir issues.

He added that 849 shopkeepers had already received Rs500,000 each in earlier relief assistance to help rebuild livelihoods.

According to official estimates shared with the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Gul Plaza contained around 1,209 shops, and compensation is being processed based on verified inventory losses.

Murad Ali Shah said Rs511.7 million had recently been distributed among 200 verified victims, while remaining payments will be released after verification by KCCI.

He stressed that no compensation could fully offset the human and financial losses but reaffirmed the government’s commitment to rehabilitation.

The chief minister also announced that a new Gul Plaza building with the same number of shops would be reconstructed within two years.

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He said recommendations from a judicial commission on the incident were being implemented, with a committee formed to present proposals to the provincial cabinet. He also warned that accountability would be ensured for those found responsible.

Officials said efforts were underway to strengthen fire safety systems, including international cooperation for improved emergency response planning.

Separately, the chief minister also outlined ongoing infrastructure projects across Karachi, including roads, flyovers, and rehabilitation works, stating that development efforts would continue alongside disaster recovery measures.