Karachi: The district administration on Sunday announced the completion of the search and rescue operation at Gul Plaza, nine days after a devastating fire claimed the lives of 73 people.
The process of sealing the Gul Plaza building has been initiated. KMC staff have begun digging around the building to install iron shuttering, and the structure will be enclosed with a green plastic mesh. Meanwhile, the technical team has arrived on site to conduct a thorough inspection of the building.
Deputy Commissioner South Javed Nabi Khoso said that 82 individuals were initially reported missing following the incident. Families who are still searching for loved ones have been advised to contact the authorities.
According to the deputy commissioner, relatives of 13 missing persons have yet to provide DNA samples. So far, only 23 of the deceased have been identified.
The DNA laboratory at the University of Karachi has issued reports for 16 individuals to date, while identification of the remaining victims is ongoing. Rescue officials confirmed that human remains of two more individuals were recovered from beneath the rubble and shifted to a hospital for DNA analysis.
A research team from NED University inspected multiple locations within the plaza to assess structural and safety aspects. The Urban Search Operation team marked areas where search activities had been completed. Additionally, an eight-member delegation from the Punjab Forensic Science Agency visited the site to assist with forensic evaluation.
Calling the incident a major tragedy, DC Khoso said a case has been registered. SSP City Arif Aziz confirmed that the process of recording statements is currently underway as part of the investigation.
Meanwhile, families of the missing continue to wait in anguish—some hoping for news of sons, others of brothers or nephews. Female students from various universities visited Gul Plaza to express solidarity with the affected families, offering support and condolences during this difficult time.
