If Gates Were Closed, How Did So Many People Escape? Asks Gul Plaza President

Karachi: Gul Plaza President Tanveer Pasta has questioned claims that the building’s gates were closed during the deadly fire, asking how so many people managed to escape if exits were blocked. He said Gul Plaza has a total of 16 entry and exit points, along with a ramp serving as an emergency exit at the rear of the building.

Speaking to the media, Tanveer Pasta said that neither he nor the traders had ever extended their hands for charity, nor would they do so in the future. He stated that the Sindh government has fulfilled its commitment and that lists of affected individuals are currently being prepared.

He added that traders are also appealing to the federal government for support, stressing that even small shopkeepers would not beg. “We will not ask for alms; we will take our rightful assistance with dignity. We will rebuild the plaza very soon,” he said.

Tanveer Pasta said that no amount of compensation could truly console families who lost their loved ones, as those who have passed away cannot be brought back. However, he emphasized that financial assistance can still help bereaved families, particularly women, cope with the tragedy.

It is worth noting that a fire broke out at Gul Plaza at around 10:15 pm on Saturday, January 17, which was brought under control after 36 hours. During the incident, nearly 40 percent of the building collapsed.

So far, at least 27 people have lost their lives due to suffocation and burn injuries, while search operations continue for more than 80 missing persons.