The death toll from the deadly Gul Plaza fire in Karachi rose to 21 on Monday, while dozens of people are still missing. The shopping mall on M.A. Jinnah Road caught fire on Saturday night. Although firefighters said they had controlled the blaze after more than 24 hours, flames appeared again from the debris and the operation had to continue.
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah visited the site and spoke to the media. He announced Rs10 million in compensation for the family of each person who has died.
He said no amount of money can replace a human life, but the government wants to support the affected families. He added that the payment process will start immediately.
Rescue teams, including the Pakistan Navy, Edhi, and Rescue 1122, are still working inside the damaged building. Many parts of the structure have collapsed, and the rest is also unsafe.
Officials said around 40 per cent of the building has already fallen and they may have to demolish the whole plaza to complete the search.
Rescue efforts continue amid dangerous conditions
Rescue workers have made several entry points into the building but the work remains very risky. Smoke is still coming out because the fire is deep inside the structure.
Officials said the flames are now mostly under control and the cooling process has started. Heavy machinery is also being used to remove debris.
Several bodies were taken to Civil Hospital Karachi. Some bodies could not be identified, so DNA samples have been collected from families.
The cause of the fire is still unknown but officials first suspected an electrical short circuit.
Government vows rehabilitation and full probe
The chief minister said the Sindh government will rebuild Gul Plaza and help traders restart their businesses.
A committee has been formed to prepare plans for compensation and rehabilitation. A forensic investigation will also be carried out to find the real cause of the fire.
The government has set up helplines to report missing persons. Many families are still waiting for news of their loved ones. The tragedy has shocked the city and turned into a moment of deep national sorrow.
