Recovery operations at Karachi’s Gul Plaza disaster site entered the ninth day on Sunday. Authorities recovered more human remains overnight. As a result, officials moved closer to concluding the search phase.
Rescue teams continued working amid debris and unstable structures. The operation followed one of the deadliest urban fires in the city’s recent history.
Remains Shifted for DNA Identification
Urban search and rescue teams recovered remains from the third floor of the collapsed structure. Officials immediately transferred the remains to Civil Hospital. DNA profiling is underway to establish identities.
The identification process remains slow and complex. However, authorities confirmed steady progress through forensic analysis.
Death Toll and Missing Persons Update
Officials stated that the confirmed death toll has reached 71. Meanwhile, 82 people were officially reported missing at the District South administration office. Of these, 10 to 11 individuals remain unaccounted for.
So far, authorities have identified 22 victims. Fifteen identifications were confirmed through DNA testing. The remaining cases await forensic verification.
Authorities Signal End of Search Phase
District South Deputy Commissioner Javed Nabi Khoso said search and recovery work would conclude soon. However, debris removal will continue after the operation ends. Heavy machinery will be used to clear the site safely.
He confirmed that remains were recovered late at night. These samples were sent for DNA testing without delay. He also stated that investigations are actively underway.
However, officials urged restraint. They warned against speculation until inquiries conclude.
FIR Registered Over Negligence Concerns
Police registered a first information report at Nabi Bux Police Station. The case includes provisions related to negligence and carelessness. The FIR names unidentified individuals.
Authorities sealed the FIR after registration. Investigators will add further sections if evidence supports additional charges.
Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar confirmed the registration. He stated that sabotage or terrorism has not been ruled out. Anti-terror provisions will be added if evidence emerges.
Political Calls for Federal-Level Inquiry
Separately, MQM-Pakistan Chairman Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui wrote to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. He requested the formation of a federal inquiry commission into the Gul Plaza tragedy.
The party proposed inclusion of several national institutions in the commission. These include investigative, regulatory, and disaster management bodies. The aim is a comprehensive and transparent probe.
MQM-P also urged the federal government to assume control of investigations and relief efforts. Additionally, the party called for a dedicated relief and rehabilitation fund for victims’ families.
Provincial Leaders Demand Accountability
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah informed the provincial assembly about revised missing figures. Initially, 88 people were listed as missing. One later returned safely, while five names were duplicated, reducing the number to 82.
Meanwhile, Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori announced plans to seek judicial inquiries. He said letters would be sent to senior judges. He stressed that those responsible must face swift punishment.
