Mayor Visits Site Late at Night
Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab visited Gul Plaza late at night to oversee rescue operations. He urged emergency teams to accelerate the search for missing people after the commercial complex suffered a major incident.
Speaking to the media, Wahab confirmed authorities had identified nearly 20 bodies. He added that rescue teams remain active, and all departments are on high alert. Furthermore, workers are removing vehicles and motorcycles trapped on the building’s rooftop.
Also Read: Rescue Operations Underway After Fire at Karachi’s Gul Plaza; Vehicles Recovered from Rooftop
Search for Missing People Continues
The mayor stated that around 80 people remain missing. We will continue the search until every missing person is found, he added. In addition, he stressed the need to investigate why extra shops were built in violation of regulations.
Specialized teams, including sniffer dogs and heavy machinery, are clearing debris to reach trapped individuals. The building’s unstable sections make the operation both complex and dangerous. Meanwhile, authorities coordinate to ensure rescue efforts remain safe and efficient.
Government Response and Relief Measures
In a televised interview on Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Ke Saath, Mayor Wahab outlined three key decisions taken by the Sindh government.
First, the Karachi Commissioner will lead an inquiry into the incident. Second, the government announced compensation of 1 million Pakistani rupees (about USD 3,500) for each deceased victim’s family. Third, officials formed a committee to help traders recover financial losses.
These steps aim to provide immediate support while ensuring accountability. In addition, the government plans to monitor compliance with safety regulations more strictly in the future.
Fire Safety Inspections and Lessons Learned
Mayor Wahab highlighted past fire safety measures. He recalled the Rashid Minhas Road fire, after which authorities audited over 600 buildings. The audit reports were subsequently shared with the Sindh Chief Minister.
He also said that the original plans for Gul Plaza were approved in 1998, and several irregularities were apparent. Unless authorities enforce rules and impose penalties, these safety issues cannot be fixed, he warned. Therefore, stricter oversight is essential to prevent similar tragedies.
Calls for Accountability
The Gul Plaza disaster has raised serious concerns about urban safety and the enforcement of building codes in Karachi, a city of over 16 million people. Rapid development often exceeds regulatory oversight. Experts warn that unauthorized construction increases fire and collapse risks.
Mayor Wahab emphasized that authorities will hold responsible parties accountable. Furthermore, the upcoming inquiry will examine unauthorized constructions and compliance with safety regulations.
Meanwhile, rescue teams continue searching for the missing. In addition, authorities have promised transparency and compensation for victims’ families. The incident highlights Karachi’s urgent need for stricter building regulations and improved emergency preparedness.
