Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab has stated that the government is considering providing an alternate location for traders affected by the recent fire at the Gul Plaza in Karachi. In an interview with Geo News’ Shahzad Khanzada, Murtaza Wahab revealed that the fire-fighting operation has been completed, and the rescue efforts are ongoing.
Senator Kalsoom Perveen of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) expressed concerns over the lack of safety measures at the Gul Plaza, stating that such a large structure was allowed to be built without proper safety protocols. She claimed that the fire-fighting process was hindered by the intense heat, and rescue teams were struggling to access the affected areas.
The Karachi Mayor revealed that 65 people are believed to be missing, while 18 have been confirmed dead. An inquiry will be conducted under the supervision of the Karachi Commissioner. Murtaza Wahab assured that the families of the deceased will be compensated with Rs. 1.1 crore each. A committee has been formed to address the financial losses incurred by the traders affected by the fire.
In a separate development, Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab announced a compensation of Rs. 1 crore for the family of the late firefighter, Farhan. The committee, which includes representatives from the Karachi Chamber of Commerce, Health Minister Nasir Shah, Karachi Commissioner, and the Mayor himself, will decide on the appropriate compensation for the affected traders.
The government is also considering providing an alternate location for the affected traders, with the Karachi Commissioner’s committee conducting further investigations to identify those responsible for the tragedy. Murtaza Wahab revealed that the construction plan for the Gul Plaza, which was approved in 1998, had several irregularities, including the addition of 179 shops beyond the approved limit.
The Karachi Mayor also discussed the recent media reports suggesting that the Afghan government’s development budget had been reduced from $1.31 billion to $240 million. He stated that new SOPs would be developed, and fire safety systems would be strengthened.
Meanwhile, a 10-year-old girl who was being treated for throat cancer in Karachi has succumbed to her illness. Mianwali’s Deputy Commissioner has announced that a meeting will be held to discuss the situation and ensure that the required medical facilities are made available.
In a disturbing incident, two smugglers were arrested during the rescue operation at the Gul Plaza site. The Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) has declared the adjacent Ramp Plaza as a non-secure area.
Meteorological officials have warned that a powerful Western System may affect the upper regions of the country from January 24 to 28.
The confirmed death toll in the Gul Plaza fire has risen to 28, with 11 bodies identified so far.
