The Sindh Government has approved Rs7 billion compensation package for victims of the Gul Plaza tragedy in Karachi, aiming to support affected families and businesses.
Speaking at a ceremony at the Chief Minister’s House, Syed Murad Ali Shah said Rs5.657 billion has already been secured, while compensation cheques worth Rs511.7 million have been distributed to 200 verified victims.
The chief minister termed the incident a painful tragedy that caused significant human and financial losses to families and the business community.
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In the first phase, families of 72 deceased victims were allocated Rs10 million each. Payments have been completed in 64 cases, while others are under verification or pending due to legal heir issues.
In the second phase, 849 affected shopkeepers received Rs500,000 each during Ramadan to help restart their businesses.
According to estimates by the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Gul Plaza housed 1,209 shops. Officials said further compensation will be released after verification of inventory losses.
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Murad Ali Shah said a committee has been formed to implement recommendations of the judicial commission report on the tragedy.
He assured that those found responsible will face action, adding that most findings align with concerns earlier raised by the government.
The chief minister also highlighted efforts to improve emergency response systems, including collaboration with international experts to strengthen firefighting infrastructure.
The government has announced plans to rebuild Gul Plaza with the same number of shops within two years to restore business activity.
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Murad Ali Shah also outlined ongoing infrastructure projects in Karachi, including roads, flyovers, and rehabilitation of historic markets such as Empress Market and Lea Market.
The Gul Plaza tragedy remains one of the city’s major commercial disasters, impacting hundreds of traders and families.
The compensation package is part of broader efforts to rehabilitate victims and improve safety standards in Karachi’s commercial areas.
