Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on Monday announced a comprehensive relief and rehabilitation package for shopkeepers and families affected by the Gul Plaza tragedy, pledging swift recovery measures and strict accountability.

Speaking to the media during the inauguration of the Korangi Causeway road, the chief minister said replacement shops would be handed over to affected Gul Plaza shopkeepers within two months. He also announced that families of those who lost their lives in the incident would receive Rs 10 million each as compensation. “No amount can replace a human life, but the Sindh government stands firmly with the affected families,” he said.

Murad Ali Shah confirmed that Gul Plaza would be reconstructed with the same structure, retaining all 1,300 original shops without any expansion. For temporary arrangements, he revealed that several private buildings with a combined capacity of 850 shops, along with government-owned plazas, are being offered to accommodate displaced traders.

As part of interim relief, each affected shopkeeper will receive Rs 500,000 to cover household expenses. In addition, the Sindh government, in collaboration with the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, will fully compensate shopkeepers for goods destroyed in the fire.

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To help businesses restart, the Sindh Investment Department will provide interest-free loans of up to Rs 10 million per shopkeeper, with the provincial government bearing the interest cost.

On accountability, the chief minister confirmed that an FIR has been registered and assured strict action against those responsible, while admitting administrative shortcomings. He also announced mandatory safety audits for all city buildings, warning that unsafe structures will be sealed to prevent future tragedies.