Strict Action Must Be Taken Against Those Responsible for Negligence in the Gul Plaza Tragedy, Says Rafiq Suleman
Strict action must be taken against those responsible for negligence in the Gul Plaza tragedy, said Rafiq Suleman, former Chairman of the Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP) and Convener of the FPCCI Standing Committee on Energy, while expressing deep sorrow over the devastating fire at Gul Plaza Shopping Centre.
Speaking in Karachi on January 19, 2026, Rafiq Suleman stated that the Labour Department, Fire Safety authorities, and Civil Defence failed to fulfill their responsibilities. He demanded that the government conduct a transparent inquiry and award the strictest punishments to any institution or individual whose negligence or incompetence is proven in the Gul Plaza tragedy.
Fire Brigade Negligence Raises Serious Questions
Rafiq Suleman said that initial assessments indicate negligence on the part of the Fire Brigade. He noted that it is deeply concerning that tanker mafia across the city continues to steal and sell water, while during fire incidents the Fire Brigade is seen complaining about water shortages.
He stated that such contradictions highlight systemic failures that must be addressed to prevent future tragedies.
Call for Supreme Court Notice and Rehabilitation Committee
Calling the incident extremely serious, Rafiq Suleman urged the Supreme Court to immediately take suo motu notice of the Gul Plaza tragedy.
He further demanded that the government form a committee comprising representatives from FPCCI, KCCI, the Gul Plaza Association, and other trader bodies to urgently focus on the rehabilitation of affected individuals and ensure full financial assistance to the victims.
Fire Safety Failures Result in Massive Loss of Life
Rafiq Suleman stated that more than 25 people lost their lives in the Gul Plaza tragedy, while more than 200 individuals are still missing. He emphasized that fire alarms are the most critical requirement for saving human lives during such incidents.
He pointed out that after every major fire, the government announces the implementation of fire safety measures in commercial buildings, but these commitments often fade away without concrete action.
Reference to Past Incidents and Demand for Emergency Measures
Recalling past tragedies, Rafiq Suleman said that similar incidents had previously occurred in Bolton Market and Cooperative Market. He noted that President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari had formed a committee under the leadership of the late Siraj Kassam Teli to provide financial assistance to the affected traders of Bolton Market.
He appealed to the federal government and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari to take emergency measures for the restoration of the affected traders’ businesses.
Business Community Seeks Practical Action
Concluding his statement, Rafiq Suleman said that the business community will fully cooperate with its affected members. However, he stressed that federal and provincial government ministers must take practical steps instead of issuing mere statements.
