Karachi (Web Desk): Sindh Chief Minister (CM) Syed Murad Ali Shah on Friday announced Rs7 billion relief package for the victims of Karachi’s Gul Plaza tragedy, saying the government has already secured Rs5.657 billion, while Rs511.7 million has been distributed among 200 verified affectees.
He made the announcement while speaking at a ceremony at the CM House, attended by provincial ministers, senior officials, Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, business leaders including KCCI representatives, and a large number of affected traders.
The Sindh CM described the incident as a major human and financial loss for families and the business community.
He said that the provincial government, in line with the vision of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto and PPP leadership, had been actively working on rehabilitation from day one.
Mural Ali Shah recalled that in the first phase, Rs10 million each was announced for 72 deceased families, with payments completed in 64 cases while a few remain pending due to legal verification.
In the second phase, 849 shopkeepers were given Rs500,000 each as immediate support during Ramadan.
He said compensation is being processed based on Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (KCCI) assessment of 1,209 affected shops, and further payments will follow verification. Murad Ali Shah stressed that no compensation can fully cover the loss, but the government remains committed to full rehabilitation.
The Sindh CM also said a committee has been formed to implement the Judicial Commission’s findings, and accountability will follow its recommendations.
He added that a Chinese firm has prepared a firefighting and emergency response plan after visiting Karachi twice.
Highlighting development work, he said over Rs300 billion projects are underway in Karachi, including multiple road and market rehabilitation schemes.
He also announced upcoming completion of major roads and the inauguration of Shahrah-e-Bhutto in May.
Business leader Zubair Motiwala appreciated the government’s efforts, calling the compensation process transparent and effective.
At the end of the ceremony, 129 cheques were distributed, and the chief minister announced that a new Gul Plaza building with the same number of shops would be completed within two years.