Deputy Commissioner South Javed Nabi Khoso said that out of 82 people reported missing, bodies or remains of 71 victims have been recovered so far, while 11 individuals are still unaccounted for. He added that nearly 90 percent of the fire-hit building has been cleared, with the operation expected to conclude soon.

Rescue teams, equipped with snorkels and safety gear, re-entered the upper floors of the plaza. However, officials noted that the most sensitive section of the building has yet to be searched due to structural risks.

Also Read: Karachi Gul Plaza fire claims 61 lives, CCTV exposes locked exits

According to Police Surgeon Dr Summaiya Syed, only 16 bodies have been formally identified, as severe burns have complicated the DNA identification process. Authorities are coordinating with forensic labs to speed up verification.

Meanwhile, the Sindh government has initiated compensation payments, announcing Rs10 million for each deceased victim’s family. Documentation for eight families has been completed, and cases have been forwarded for disbursement.

The Gul Plaza inferno has raised serious concerns over fire safety compliance, emergency exits, and enforcement of building regulations across Karachi.