Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has said that compensation cheques have been distributed to 200 victims of the Gul Plaza tragedy. He added that the heirs of four to five deceased individuals have yet to be identified.
Speaking to those affected by the incident, Shah said he was not in Karachi on the day the tragedy occurred and expressed regret over the loss of life.
According to the Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Gul Plaza housed 1,209 shops.
During his address, the Chief Minister stated that the rehabilitation of those affected is the government’s responsibility and assured them they are not alone.
He said the Sindh government would provide full support, adding that financial assistance is being distributed after verification. He also acknowledged the role played by the Karachi Chamber in supporting the victims.
Shah remarked that whether the fault lies with him or someone else would become clear, noting that he has reviewed the judicial inquiry report and that 90 per cent of its findings align with what was initially stated. He added that while the government faces criticism — some of it justified — such reactions are understandable when people are suffering.
He further said that a judicial inquiry into the Gul Plaza incident had been promised and carried out, with the report presented to the cabinet.
A committee has now been formed to review its recommendations, which will be presented at the next cabinet meeting.
Murad Ali Shah concluded by saying that many people lost their life savings in the Gul Plaza tragedy.
