KARACHI, April 24: Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has unveiled a comprehensive Rs7 billion relief package for victims of the Gul Plaza tragedy, reaffirming the provincial government’s commitment to full rehabilitation of affectees while ensuring improved safety measures to prevent future disasters.
Addressing a ceremony held at the CM House, the chief minister announced that Rs5.657 billion has already been secured for distribution, while compensation cheques worth Rs511.7 million were handed over to 200 verified victims. The compensation process is being carried out in accordance with assessments conducted by the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), which identified losses across 1,209 shops affected by the tragedy.
Murad Ali Shah described the Gul Plaza incident as a deeply painful event that inflicted severe human and financial losses on families and the business community. He emphasized that while financial compensation cannot fully offset the suffering, the government remains steadfast in its support for the victims.
Senior provincial ministers, top bureaucrats, and representatives of the business community, including prominent trade leader Zubair Motiwala, attended the ceremony alongside a large number of affectees.
The chief minister outlined a multi-phase relief strategy initiated by the Sindh government. In the first phase, Rs10 million compensation was announced for each of the 72 deceased victims. Payments have already been completed in 64 cases, while the remaining cases are either under verification or pending due to legal heir documentation issues.
In the second phase, immediate financial assistance of Rs500,000 each was provided to 849 affected shopkeepers during Ramadan to help them restart their businesses and stabilize their livelihoods.
He further explained that the broader Rs7 billion package aims to compensate all verified losses comprehensively. The ongoing phase includes the disbursement of Rs511.7 million among 200 verified claimants, with the remaining payments to be released upon completion of KCCI verification procedures.
Expressing solidarity, Murad Ali Shah assured victims that every verified claimant would receive compensation. “No one will be left behind. We are committed to ensuring complete rehabilitation,” he said, adding that the government is simultaneously focusing on strengthening safety and regulatory frameworks.
The chief minister also addressed the findings of the Judicial Commission report on the tragedy, announcing the formation of a committee to implement its recommendations. He stated that accountability would be ensured, and all those identified as responsible would face legal action.
He revealed that President Asif Ali Zardari had raised the issue with Chinese authorities, resulting in technical consultations with a Chinese company that has prepared a comprehensive firefighting and emergency response plan for Karachi.
Highlighting broader urban development efforts, Murad Ali Shah said over Rs300 billion worth of development schemes have been allocated for Karachi. He noted that major infrastructure projects, including flyovers and key roads, are progressing rapidly, while rehabilitation work is underway in historic markets such as Empress Market, Lea Market, and Soldier Bazaar.
He announced that Shahrah-e-Bhutto is expected to be inaugurated in early May by PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, alongside the completion of several connecting roads and bridges.
The chief minister also stressed the importance of balanced media reporting, urging outlets to highlight both shortcomings and achievements to maintain public confidence.
Speaking on behalf of the business community, Zubair Motiwala appreciated the Sindh government’s swift and substantial response, calling it a sincere effort to support the victims. He assured that compensation is being distributed transparently and will reach all rightful claimants.
Representatives of the victims described the compensation as a symbol of hope. Affected trader Muhammad Ashraf said the financial assistance marked a turning point for many families, while others expressed gratitude for the government’s continued support during a difficult period.
Murad Ali Shah concluded by reaffirming the government’s dual focus on compensation and prevention, emphasizing that stronger safety regulations and collaboration with stakeholders will help avert similar tragedies in the future.
He also announced that a new Gul Plaza building, comprising the same number of shops, will be constructed within two years, providing long-term stability and renewed opportunities for affected traders.
