Sindh Senior Minister and Provincial Minister for Information, Transport and Mass Transit, Sharjeel Inam Memon, on Sunday said that a comprehensive inquiry into the Gul Plaza building fire incident has been launched to determine how the fire broke out and what caused it.
In a statement, Mr Memon said that a fact-finding report be prepared, on the basis of which future steps would be decided. Memon expressed deep sorrow and grief over the tragic fire incident and said that the government stood in solidarity with the affected families. He said that as soon as information about the incident was received, government machinery reached the site during the night, and every possible effort was made to control the fire using all available resources.
According to Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, 40 snorkels and other modern machinery took part in the rescue and firefighting operation, as a result of which the fire has largely been brought under control, while the cooling process is still ongoing. He said that immediately after the incident, the fire brigade, snorkels and rescue agencies reached the site, and timely action was taken.
Memon said that modern equipment were being used in the rescue and firefighting operations, including high-reach snorkels, foam and cooling systems, while all relevant agencies were continuously monitoring the situation.
He said that Gul Plaza was an old building, and the final cause of the fire would only be determined after the investigation is completed. The government is avoiding speculation and is examining the matter from all angles.
Memon further said that after a complete assessment of the damage, the government would decide on the future course of action. “Whether it is the business community or other affected individuals, the government will provide maximum possible support within the framework of law and regulations,” he added.
He said that at present, the government’s top priority was the rescue operation, completion of the cooling process, and the protection of human lives.