The Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI) has issued a strong demand for a judicial inquiry into the devastating fire that engulfed the historic Gul Plaza building in Saddar. The incident, which occurred on January 19, 2026, resulted in significant financial losses for hundreds of traders and shop owners.
A Call for Accountability and Justice
In a formal statement, the KCCI leadership expressed profound grief and shock over the catastrophic event. The chamber's President, along with Senior Vice President and Vice President, emphasized the urgent need for a transparent investigation led by a high court judge. They argue that only a judicial probe can uncover the true causes of the fire and identify any potential negligence or safety failures.
The fire broke out in the early hours of January 19, 2026, rapidly spreading through the multi-story commercial complex known for its wholesale textile and garment businesses. Despite the efforts of firefighting teams, the blaze caused extensive damage to property and merchandise stored within the building.
Seeking Relief for Affected Traders
The KCCI's demands extend beyond just an investigation. The chamber is actively advocating for immediate financial relief for the business community impacted by the disaster. They have called upon both the federal and provincial governments to step in and provide compensation packages to help traders recover from their losses.
This incident has highlighted long-standing concerns about fire safety protocols in Karachi's older commercial districts. The KCCI statement pointedly mentioned the need to examine whether proper safety measures were in place and if the response from emergency services was adequate and timely. The chamber warned that without a thorough judicial process, public confidence in disaster management systems would further erode.
The Aftermath and Future Precautions
Beyond the immediate probe and compensation, the KCCI urged the relevant authorities to conduct a city-wide audit of fire safety arrangements in all major markets and commercial plazas. The goal is to prevent such tragedies in the future by ensuring compliance with building codes and safety regulations.
The Gul Plaza fire is not just an isolated incident but a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by Pakistan's commercial heartland. The business community, represented by the KCCI, is now seeking not just answers but also systemic changes to protect lives and livelihoods. The outcome of their demand for a judicial probe will be closely watched by traders across Karachi and beyond.
