The Sindh government has announced that the rehabilitation of people affected by the Gul Plaza fire in Karachi may take two to three months, as the damaged building is not yet safe for commercial activities.
Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah shared the timeline while addressing the Sindh Assembly, outlining a comprehensive compensation and relief plan for victims and traders affected by the tragedy.
Speaking during the provincial assembly session, the chief minister said that the government is fully committed to supporting families of the deceased and restoring the livelihoods of traders who suffered heavy losses in the devastating fire.
He confirmed that families of those who lost their lives will receive Rs10 million (1 Crore) each as compensation, the announcement was made on January 19, and the funds have already been released, CM said.
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To ensure transparency, the chief minister directed the commissioner to identify the legal heirs of the deceased and oversee the timely distribution of compensation.
He also revealed that the Sindh government has formed a special committee in coordination with the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) to assess the financial losses suffered by traders due to the fire.
The committee has been tasked with evaluating the extent of damages and verifying claims submitted by affected traders.
The chief minister assured assembly members that all verified losses would be compensated by the government, adding that consultations with business leaders and KCCI officials are ongoing to ensure a fair and accurate assessment process.
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In addition to compensation for families, the Sindh government announced immediate financial relief for shop owners affected by the incident.
According to the data provided by the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA), 1,102 shops were officially approved in Gul Plaza. However, the chief minister clarified that additional shops would also be considered if valid documentation is presented.
Each affected shop owner will receive Rs500,000 as immediate financial assistance to help sustain their businesses during the recovery period.
The commissioner has been instructed to prepare a verified list of affected traders starting January 26, 2026, which will be approved by KCCI to ensure transparency and accountability.
To address the issue of displaced traders, the chief minister disclosed that alternative commercial spaces have been arranged in Karachi.
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Around 500 shops in one building and 300 shops in another building have been made available, with building owners offering rent-free space for one year to affected traders. This step aims to help businesses resume operations while Gul Plaza remains unsafe for commercial use.
Murad Ali Shah also expressed gratitude to the citizens of Karachi, members of the business community, and organisations that extended support to victims during the crisis.
He reiterated that the Sindh government would continue relief, rehabilitation, and compensation efforts until affected families and traders recover from the tragedy.
