Sindh CM announces compensation, loans, and rebuilding of Gul Plaza after fire

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on Friday announced a relief, compensation, and reconstruction package for victims of the deadly Gul Plaza fire, acknowledging negligence and vowing accountability through a formal inquiry.

Speaking on the floor of the Sindh Assembly, the chief minister acknowledged that there have been lapses and negligence, which he said will be addressed. He said all operational details would surface during the inquiry.

Murad Ali Shah said compensation for the families of the deceased was announced on the first day of the tragedy.

“No amount can compensate for a human life, but the funds have been released,” he said, adding that the commissioner had been directed to complete verification and hand over payments to the legal heirs without delay.

READ MORE: Gul Plaza fire: Murad announces compensation, probe, safety reform package

He said a traders’ committee had been formed to assess losses and oversee compensation for affected shopkeepers. As immediate relief, each shop owner would be given Rs500,000 to help them resume livelihoods.

To ensure business continuity, the chief minister said two alternative commercial buildings—housing a total of 850 shops—had been identified.

The owners, he said, had agreed to waive rent for one year. The provincial government would allocate shops within two months and aim to keep them rent-free for up to two years.

READ MORE: Gul Plaza fire: Sindh CM announces Rs10mn as compensation for each deceased

He further announced a major financial support initiative through the Sindh Enterprise Development Fund Limited, under which each affected shopkeeper would be eligible for a loan of up to Rs10 million. The Sindh government would act as guarantor and bear the interest cost.

Murad Ali Shah also announced that Gul Plaza would be demolished and rebuilt within two years. He assured the House that the reconstructed building would have the same number of shops as before, with no additional commercial units.

An inquiry is underway to determine responsibility and causes of the fire, he added, stressing that accountability would follow once findings are finalised.