The Sindh Cabinet has approved a major financial relief package for the victims of the Gul Plaza tragedy, which includes a payment of Rs. 1 crore to the family of each deceased person and substantial interest-free loans for shopkeepers.
The cabinet also formed a special subcommittee on Tuesday, headed by Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, to oversee the government’s response. This committee includes provincial ministers Sharjeel Inam Memon, Nasir Hussain Shah, Saeed Ghani, and Ziaul Hassan Lanjar.
This subcommittee has been tasked with reviewing the investigation of the inquiry committee already established under the Commissioner of Karachi. Based on the commissioner’s report, the ministerial group will determine the future course of action.
The financial relief plan includes an immediate payment of five lakh rupees to each affected shopkeeper to cover living and utility expenses. “It is our collective responsibility to provide all possible relief to the victims,” said the Sindh Chief Minister.
To aid in economic recovery, the cabinet has approved an interest-free loan of one crore rupees for each affected shopkeeper to help them re-establish their business operations. Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah confirmed that “the interest due on the one crore rupee loan will be paid by the Sindh government.”
Furthermore, the provincial government has committed to providing new shops to all affected traders within two months so they can resume their businesses. “We will take all possible measures to protect and facilitate the shopkeepers,” the Chief Minister added.