According to Beyond Time News, the Sindh government has approved a Rs7 billion relief package for victims of the Gul Plaza tragedy. Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah announced the decision during a ceremony at the Chief Minister House in Karachi.
He said Rs5.657 billion has already been secured, while compensation is being distributed in phases. So far, Rs511.7 million has been paid to 200 verified victims.
Relief for Families and Businesses
The chief minister described the incident as a deeply painful tragedy that caused serious human and financial losses. He said the government remains fully committed to rehabilitation and long-term support for affected families and traders.
In the first phase, families of 72 deceased persons were given Rs10 million each. Payments have been completed in 64 cases, while the remaining cases are under verification due to legal heir documentation issues.
In the second phase, 849 affected shopkeepers received Rs500,000 each as immediate relief during Ramadan to help restart their businesses.
Compensation Based on Verified Losses
Officials said Gul Plaza had around 1,209 shops. Compensation is being calculated based on verified inventory losses through the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI). Further payments will be released after verification is completed.
The chief minister said that while financial assistance cannot fully cover the losses, the government stands firmly with all affected families and traders.
Karachi markets step up fire safety measures following Gul Plaza fire incident
Accountability and Safety Measures
Murad Ali Shah also referred to the Judicial Commission report on the tragedy. He said a committee has been formed to implement its recommendations, which will be presented in the next Sindh cabinet meeting.
He added that strict action will be taken against those responsible. According to him, more than 90% of the findings in the report align with concerns already raised by the government.
He further said efforts are underway to improve Karachi’s emergency response system, including collaboration with Chinese experts to strengthen firefighting infrastructure.
Development Projects in Karachi
The chief minister also highlighted ongoing development work across Karachi, including road construction, flyovers, and the restoration of major markets such as Empress Market, Lea Market, Machhi Miani Market, Nursery Market, and Soldier Bazaar Market.
He announced that Shahrah-e-Bhutto will be inaugurated in early May by PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. The Murghi Khana Bridge and connecting road projects are also nearing completion.
Reconstruction of Gul Plaza
Murad Ali Shah said the government plans to rebuild Gul Plaza with a modern structure while maintaining the same number of shops. The project is expected to be completed within two years, restoring commercial activity in the area.
