The All Karachi business community announced a day of mourning on Monday following the tragic fire at Gul Plaza, which claimed several lives and left many injured.
Business leaders said commercial activities across the city would be partially suspended as a mark of respect for the victims, while special prayers would be offered for the deceased and solidarity expressed with the affected families.
The devastating incident has drawn widespread grief and condemnation from leaders across political, religious, and social circles. Many described the blaze as a heartbreaking human tragedy that has deeply shaken the city. Citizens from all walks of life have continued to express condolences, sharing in the sorrow of families who lost loved ones in the fire.
In a statement, the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) strongly called for strict enforcement of fire safety regulations, stating that the lack of safety measures in commercial buildings such as Gul Plaza is unacceptable.
The party criticised the Sindh government and the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation for failing to provide timely relief and effective emergency response.
MQM also demanded financial compensation for the families of the deceased and comprehensive medical treatment for the injured. The party urged authorities to immediately formulate a concrete plan to prevent similar incidents and address safety lapses in Karachi’s commercial centres.
Jamaat-e-Islami Amir Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman expressed deep sorrow over the loss of precious lives, calling the tragedy extremely painful. He extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.
He also paid tribute to a firefighter who lost his life while performing his duty and directed the Al-Khidmat Foundation to take part in relief efforts. Jamaat-e-Islami Karachi Amir Munam Zafar echoed similar concerns, highlighting poor safety and administrative arrangements in the city.
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also expressed condolences, stating his solidarity with the grieving families. Meanwhile, Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal directed authorities to ensure immediate and quality medical care for the injured, assuring full federal support to the Sindh government in managing the aftermath.
