Business leaders on Sunday called for an immediate investigation into institutional negligence following a devastating fire at the Gul Plaza shopping centre, which resulted in the loss of human lives and significant financial damage.
In a joint statement, President of the North Karachi Association of Trade and Industry (NKATI), Faisal Moez Khan, and CEO of the North Karachi Industrial Development and Management Company (NKIDMC), Akhtar Ismail, demanded that Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah initiate strict action against those responsible for the tragic incident.
Faisal Moez Khan described the fire and the resulting loss of life and property as a great tragedy. Citing Gul Plaza President Tanveer Pasha, he highlighted that despite the shopping centre having more than 20 entry and exit gates, the relevant authorities allegedly failed to evacuate people from the building effectively.
While commending the firefighters for their bravery, Khan noted with sorrow that one first responder lost his life during the rescue efforts.
He emphasized the urgent need for stringent enforcement of fire safety laws across all commercial centres in the city, stating that mere legislation at the government level is insufficient without strict implementation.
An appeal was made to the federal and provincial governments for immediate financial assistance to the affected shopkeepers, enabling them to restart their businesses before the holy month of Ramadan. The call for aid was specifically directed to Field Marshal General Syed Asim Munir, Prime Minister Mian Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah.
Khan concluded by conveying that the business community across Pakistan is deeply saddened by the fatalities. He extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the swift recovery of those injured and currently receiving treatment.