Deputy Commissioner South Javed Nabi Khoso has said that rescue and search operations are continuing to recover possible bodies trapped under the debris at Gul Plaza, with all efforts being carried out cautiously due to safety concerns.
Speaking to the media in Karachi, the DC South stated that according to current figures, between 55 and 60 people have lost their lives in the Gul Plaza tragedy. Post-mortems of 48 victims have been completed so far, while 86 people remain missing, and search efforts are ongoing.
He said that operations to retrieve possible bodies from beneath the rubble are continuing, but the use of heavy machinery has been temporarily suspended due to the risk of further collapse of the structure. Rescue personnel have re-entered the building to continue manual search operations.
The deputy commissioner added that the entire building is being searched once again. However, areas covered by heavy debris cannot be searched immediately, and those sections will be examined after the rubble is fully cleared.
He further said that DNA samples of the deceased and their family members are being collected to help with identification, although DNA extraction from some body parts has proven technically difficult.
DC South said investigations are also underway to determine why the building’s doors were closed at the time of the incident, and statements from various individuals have already been recorded. He added that notices are being issued to buildings lacking fire safety arrangements, and so far, six buildings have been served notices for non-compliance.
