Karachi (Bureau Report / Web Desk):
The investigation report into the deadly fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi has been released, revealing that the building was illegal and constructed in violation of approved regulations, allegedly with the connivance of the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA).
According to the report, the complex plan and construction details of Gul Plaza have come to light, showing that the building had no emergency exits and lacked proper fire safety arrangements. Narrow entry and exit points created serious technical difficulties for firefighters during rescue and fire-extinguishing operations.
The Sindh Building Control Authority stated that Gul Plaza was originally constructed in the 1980s, and an additional floor was added in 1998. SBCA further revealed that shops were built in the parking area, while the rooftop was converted into a parking facility. In 2003, the additional floor of Gul Plaza was later regularised.
According to SBCA records, the owner of Gul Plaza obtained the completion certificate on April 14, 2003. The approved building plan allowed a basement and three floors, with permission for 1,021 shops. However, contrary to the approved plan, around 1,200 shops were constructed in the plaza.
The authority confirmed that 179 shops were built in excess of the approved plan. It was also revealed that corridors and designated exit pathways were illegally converted into shops, severely compromising safety standards.