President, Sindh leadership express condolences over Karachi Gul Plaza fire

KARACHI: President Asif Ali Zardari has expressed deep sorrow over the devastating fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi, which claimed several lives and left many injured. In a statement from the President’s Office, Zardari extended his condolences to the bereaved families and urged the Sindh government and relevant agencies to provide immediate and comprehensive assistance to those affected.

“No effort should be spared in providing the best medical facilities to the injured,” the President said, adding, “May Allah Almighty grant the injured a speedy recovery and give patience to the affected families.”

Senator and Vice President of the Sindh’s ruling Pakistan Peoples’ Party (PPP), Sherry Rehman, also expressed grief over the tragedy, emphasizing the severe financial losses suffered by traders and employees due to the destruction of commercial units. She called for strict enforcement of urban safety regulations and the development of a modern fire safety system to prevent such incidents in the future. Rehman added that a thorough investigation into the fire’s causes is imperative.

Meanwhile, Provincial Minister for Local Government Syed Nasir Hussain Shah spoke from Sukkur, offering condolences and highlighting that a firefighter lost his life while controlling the blaze. He confirmed that the Sindh Chief Minister has taken notice of the incident and promised action against those found negligent. Shah also stressed that relief and compensation would be provided to affected families and traders.

The tragic fire has renewed scrutiny on building safety standards in urban areas, prompting calls from political leaders and officials alike for a comprehensive strategy to prevent similar disasters in the future.

FIRE UPDATE

So far, four sections of the Gul Plaza building have collapsed due to raging fire. Firefighters and rescue personnel are still trying to bring the blaze under control that broke out around 10:30 PM yesterday.

Confirmed death toll is six, until now, with multiple injured reported. Some people are also feared buried under the rubble of the building.