Karachi Division

Karachi : ReNews Pakistan
A session of the Judicial Commission constituted to investigate the Gul Plaza fire incident was held in Karachi on Wednesday, bringing together senior officials and stakeholders associated with the commercial building’s operations and emergency response. Representatives present included the Director General of Rescue 1122, the President of the Gul Plaza Traders Association, and the Chief Executive Officer of K-Electric, among other relevant authorities.
The commission initiated a detailed review of operational, administrative, and safety-related aspects of the commercial structure, particularly examining compliance with fire safety protocols, electrical systems management, and emergency response readiness. Officials were asked to provide clarification on the availability and functionality of fire prevention mechanisms, evacuation routes, and overall infrastructure preparedness within the building.
Urban development observers note that incidents involving major commercial complexes highlight the importance of regulatory enforcement, infrastructure maintenance, and institutional oversight in densely occupied business centers. The condition and management of such structures directly influence commercial continuity, investor confidence, and the sustainability of organized business activity in metropolitan areas.
The commission emphasized the need for effective coordination among utility providers, emergency services, and building management to ensure structural safety and operational compliance. Authorities also underlined the importance of periodic inspections, adherence to safety codes, and administrative accountability to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The inquiry is expected to continue with further testimonies and technical evaluations. Findings and recommendations from the commission may contribute to strengthening regulatory frameworks governing commercial buildings, ensuring safer and more resilient urban business environments.

Karachi | ReNews Pakistan
District administrations across Karachi have conducted enforcement operations at 26 locations to remove encroachments and ensure unobstructed public access along major roads and commercial corridors. The actions were carried out under the supervision of Deputy Commissioners, who briefed the Karachi Commissioner on measures taken to improve traffic flow and restore lawful use of public spaces.
During the operations, six commercial properties, including hotels, were sealed for violating regulatory requirements and operating in contravention of approved usage and compliance standards. Officials stated that sealing measures were implemented in accordance with applicable regulations, and reopening would be subject to fulfillment of legal and administrative conditions.
Authorities emphasized that such enforcement initiatives are part of ongoing efforts to maintain orderly urban development, ensure compliance with approved layouts, and protect the functional integrity of key transport routes and commercial zones.
The district administrations reaffirmed their commitment to continuing inspections and enforcement actions to prevent unauthorized occupation and ensure adherence to planning and regulatory frameworks across the city.

Karachi | ReNews Pakistan
Murtaza Wahab, Chairman of the Karachi Water Corporation and Mayor of Karachi, announced that work is underway to gradually convert pumping stations to solar energy, alongside the installation of modern pumping equipment to strengthen distribution capacity across key urban zones.
The announcement was made during the inauguration of upgraded systems at the LSR and CI-60 pumping stations near Gulshan-e-Iqbal. Officials confirmed that two new 220-horsepower motors were installed at the LSR station, while three advanced 215-horsepower motors were deployed at CI-60. Additionally, a 500-KVA standby generator has been installed at LSR to ensure uninterrupted operations during power outages.
Authorities reported that the upgrades have significantly improved flow capacity in several densely populated areas, including Garden, Old City Area, Mithadar, Kharadar, Soldier Bazaar, Maripur, Chanesar Town, Jinnah Town, and Gulshan Town. In some locations, delivery levels have increased from seven feet to approximately twelve feet. Overall, the improvements are expected to enable an additional supply of 4 to 5 million gallons per day.
The mayor further stated that work on the K-III bulk supply project is progressing, with efforts underway to complete it by 31 May The project is expected to enhance long-term system capacity and support expanding urban demand. He also urged K‑Electric to ensure consistent electricity provision, noting that power disruptions directly affect pumping operations and service reliability.
Officials emphasized that infrastructure modernization, including solar integration and system upgrades, is essential to strengthening Karachi’s urban service framework and ensuring sustainable delivery for its growing population.