Gul Plaza Tragedy: WMO President Salman Iqbal Expresses Grief, Demands High-Level Inquiry

KARACHI: Mr. Salman Iqbal, President of the World Memon Organization (WMO), has expressed deep sorrow and Regret over the loss of precious lives and reports of missing persons following the devastating fire at Gul Plaza. He called upon the relevant authorities to take immediate, responsible, and decisive action to address the catastrophe.

In a formal statement, the WMO President emphasized that no city can sustain its status as an economic hub if its basic safety systems and emergency response mechanisms fail repeatedly.

“The grave concerns raised by traders regarding the delayed arrival of fire tenders are alarming,” Mr. Iqbal stated. He noted that rescue operations were severely hampered by a critical shortage of water, resulting in the destruction of the livelihoods of thousands of traders and laborers.

He highlighted that a significant majority of the affected shopkeepers and workers at Gul Plaza belong to the Memon community. “Their years of hard work and life savings have been reduced to ashes in this horrific incident,” he added.

Mr. Salman Iqbal remarked that it is a “moment of reflection” for the authorities that routine accidents in Karachi’s commercial centers continue to escalate into major tragedies. He pointed out that these recurring fire incidents underscore a systemic failure in fire safety and emergency preparedness, as well as a lack of accountability.

Representing the World Memon Organization, Mr. Iqbal extended his condolences to the bereaved families and expressed solidarity with those whose loved ones remain missing. He stressed that formal statements of sympathy are not enough; the victims require immediate financial aid, full rehabilitation, and justice.

The WMO President announced that he would personally meet with the affected traders of Gul Plaza. He further committed that the World Memon Organization would engage with relevant government officials to ensure that the victims receive their due rights, compensation, and complete assistance for recovery.

Concluding his statement, Mr. Salman Iqbal demanded that the Sindh Government:

1. Announce an immediate relief and compensation package for the victims.

2. Form an independent, high-level inquiry committee to investigate the causes and the failure of the emergency response.

3. Launch a comprehensive plan for the complete restoration and reconstruction of Gul Plaza.

4. Strictly enforce fire and building safety laws across Karachi to prevent further loss of life and employment.