Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan, while speaking to the media at the site of the Gul Plaza tragedy, said that he had arrived in Karachi on the Prime Minister’s instructions to represent the federal government and to express solidarity with the affected people. He stated that the loss of precious lives in this tragic incident was deeply regrettable, and that the affected families had also suffered heavy financial losses.
The Federal Minister said that the Prime Minister has issued special directives for a thorough investigation of the incident, and that any weaknesses or shortcomings in governance identified during the inquiry will be addressed. He emphasized the need to learn lessons from such incidents to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Jam Kamal Khan said that the provincial government, district administration, and all relevant institutions are present at the site and are fulfilling their responsibilities. He assured that the federal government will fully discharge its responsibilities in coordination with the provincial government and will provide all possible relief to the victims and the business community.
He said that the Prime Minister has assured full cooperation and that every possible mechanism will be adopted to help the people.
The Federal Minister said that he has a long-standing association with Karachi and that it is his own city. He said there is no doubt about Karachi’s role and contribution to Pakistan. He added that the federal government stands with the business community, and that FPCCI, Chambers of Commerce, and traders’ organizations are cooperating with the government.
Jam Kamal Khan said that inadequate security arrangements, lack of fire safety measures, and absence of emergency exits lead to major losses. He said the government should not only present a comprehensive plan but also provide alternative solutions. He pointed out that similar incidents have occurred in Karachi in the past, and that modern construction materials tend to intensify fires; therefore, conditions are no longer the same as before.
He said that the provision of basic facilities and necessities is the government’s responsibility. In this regard, the Prime Minister will form a committee that will work with the provincial government to prepare a comprehensive plan. He said that traders will be given relief and their legitimate expectations will be fulfilled.
Responding to a question about delays in ongoing development projects in the city, the Federal Minister said that no step should be taken that creates difficulties in rescue operations. He said that ongoing construction projects within the city are for its improvement; however, contractors should have no excuses, and the pace of development work should not slow down.
