Ashes to aid: Rs7b lifeline for Gul Plaza victims

Govt rolls out compensation plan, vows accountability, safer future after tragedy

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KARACHI:

Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has announced a comprehensive Rs7 billion financial package for victims of the Gul Plaza tragedy, marking a step toward recovery and rebuilding for affected families and traders.

Speaking as the chief guest at a ceremony held at the Chief Minister House, Murad Ali Shah described the incident as a devastating tragedy that caused significant loss of life and property, deeply impacting families and the business community.

He said that Rs5.657 billion has already been secured under the package, while compensation cheques worth Rs511.7 million have been distributed among 200 verified victims. The remaining claimants will receive payments following verification by the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI).

In the initial phase, families of 72 deceased victims were promised Rs10 million each. Payments have been completed in 64 cases, while others are either under verification or facing legal heirship issues. In addition, 849 affected shopkeepers were earlier given Rs500,000 each as immediate relief during Ramazan to help restart their businesses.

According to official estimates, Gul Plaza housed 1,209 shops, and compensation is being disbursed based on verified inventory losses. The chief minister emphasised that while no financial aid can fully compensate for the losses, the government stands firmly with the victims and is committed to their full rehabilitation.

Reaffirming this commitment, he said all pending payments would be cleared and no eligible claimant would be left behind.

Judicial commission report

Murad Ali Shah also announced the formation of a committee to review and implement recommendations of the judicial commission report on the tragedy. He assured that those found responsible would be held accountable.

Highlighting future prevention measures, he noted that discussions with international partners have led to the development of a comprehensive firefighting and emergency response plan to strengthen safety systems in Karachi.

The chief minister also outlined ongoing development projects across the city and stressed that both infrastructure development and service delivery are now being given equal priority.

Traders, victims grateful

Business leader Zubair Motiwala, speaking at the event, appreciated the government's response, calling the compensation package a significant relief for affected traders. Victims, too, described the compensation as a symbol of hope, saying it reflects the government's support during a time of crisis.

During the ceremony, 129 compensation cheques were distributed among victims. The government also pledged to construct a new Gul Plaza within two years, restoring the same number of shops and helping revive livelihoods.

Officials reiterated that alongside compensation and rebuilding, stronger safety regulations and oversight mechanisms will be enforced to prevent such tragedies in the future.