Karachi: The search operation at Gul Plaza is nearing completion as the technical team conducted its final inspection of the fire-ravaged building on Wednesday. Authorities have now begun the process of sealing the structure, marking a crucial step in the aftermath of the devastating incident.
Deputy Commissioner South, Javed Nabi Khoso, told Geo News that the search operation at the site is almost complete. He said the technical team would enter the building for the last time, after which the building would be sealed. He also urged families of missing persons to come forward if they still believe any of their loved ones remain unaccounted for.
“The technical team will enter the building today for the final time, and then the building will be sealed,” the deputy commissioner said. “If anyone still has a missing relative, they should contact the authorities.”
The deputy commissioner revealed that 79 people were reported missing, and 13 of their families have not yet provided DNA samples, which is delaying the identification process. He emphasized that cooperation from families is essential to complete the identification and legal formalities.
Khoso added that data of 30 bodies has already been sent to the government to facilitate compensation payments to the families of the deceased. He said that 73 bodies have been recovered so far, and 23 have been identified, with their bodies handed over to their families after necessary legal procedures.
The deputy commissioner also warned that those who fail to contact authorities within the stipulated time will be removed from the official missing persons list. “If families do not respond within the given time, their names will be removed from the list,” he said.
Meanwhile, the technical team has completed its final inspection of Gul Plaza, and authorities have begun sealing the building. Work is underway to install iron shuttering around the structure to prevent unauthorized access and ensure public safety. The sealing process aims to secure the site and prevent any further incidents or hazards.
In a related development, SSP City Arif Aziz said that all aspects of negligence and carelessness surrounding the incident will be investigated. He confirmed that inquiries are underway to determine why the doors were not opened even after the fire broke out, which could have prevented the loss of lives.
The SSP’s statement indicates that authorities are focusing on possible lapses in emergency response, building safety compliance, and management negligence. Investigators are likely to review CCTV footage, witness statements, and fire safety records as part of the ongoing probe.
It is important to note that the Gul Plaza tragedy occurred on the night of January 17, when a fire engulfed the entire building, destroying it completely. The blaze caused massive destruction and resulted in the deaths of 73 people, making it one of Karachi’s deadliest recent incidents.
As the sealing process continues, officials have reiterated that the investigation and legal proceedings will continue. Authorities have emphasized that accountability will be ensured, and those responsible for negligence will be brought to justice.
The incident has sparked widespread concern about fire safety standards in commercial buildings, particularly high-rise structures in major cities. Experts and civil society groups have called for stricter enforcement of fire safety regulations, regular inspections, and penalties for violations to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Families of the victims have demanded transparency and strict action against those responsible for the disaster. The ongoing search operation and sealing of the building are expected to provide some closure to affected families, though many still await identification of missing persons.
The tragedy has also prompted public calls for improved emergency response mechanisms, including faster evacuation procedures, proper maintenance of fire exits, and the availability of firefighting equipment in buildings.
As Karachi mourns the loss of 73 lives, authorities have urged citizens to cooperate with the ongoing investigation and support relief efforts. The sealing of Gul Plaza marks a significant step in the post-incident process, but the focus remains on completing the investigation and ensuring justice for the victims.
