We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragic fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi on 17 January, which has resulted in the tragic loss of at least 21 lives, with several dozen people still reported missing. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and all those affected by this horrific incident.

While the official cause of the fire has yet to be confirmed, media reports indicate that a short circuit and inadequate safety arrangements may have contributed to the scale of the disaster. This tragedy once again highlights the urgent and ongoing need for robust fire prevention, building integrity, and life safety measures to prevent the loss of life.

A delegation from the International Accord and the Pakistan Accord met with the Sindh Minister for Labour, Human Resources and Social Protection, Mr. Saeed Ghani, on Monday, 19 January. During the meeting, the delegation reaffirmed the Accord’s commitment to supporting government capacity-building efforts and offered its technical expertise and knowledge gained over more than 12 years of experience in improving workplace safety.

The International Accord is currently implementing a comprehensive fire and building safety program in Pakistan through the Pakistan Accord for Health and Safety in the Textile and Garment Industry. Supported by more than 140 global brands and retailers, the program has inspected over 340 garment and textile factories and continues to work closely with suppliers to address safety risks and ensure necessary remediation.

The Accord remains committed to supporting workers, communities, and industries across Pakistan, and to collaborating with stakeholders to advance meaningful and lasting improvements in safety standards.