Sindh to Reorganize Emergency Services After Gul Plaza Incident
KARACHI: (February 6, 2026) Following the Gul Plaza incident, the Sindh government has decided in principle to reorganize Rescue and Emergency Services to build a faster, more coordinated, and unified disaster response system. The decision was taken at a high-level meeting chaired by Sindh Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah, where a comprehensive review of the province’s emergency and disaster management structure was conducted.
Officials presented a detailed briefing on the current operational framework covering the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), Rescue 1122, municipal fire brigade services, Sindh Integrated Emergency Health Services (SIEHS), Directorate of Civil Defence, the Relief Commissioner’s office, and other auxiliary support institutions. The review identified operational gaps, duplication of responsibilities, fragmented command systems, and coordination challenges that can hinder timely response during major emergencies.
The meeting concluded that multiple agencies working under separate command and communication channels often lead to delayed decision-making and inefficient resource deployment at critical moments. The proposed reorganization seeks to establish a unified command structure, integrated control mechanisms, and clearer jurisdictional roles for all responding agencies.
After further consultations and refinement, a formal and comprehensive proposal will be placed before the Sindh Cabinet for consideration and approval.
The Chief Secretary stressed that the objective of the restructuring is not only rapid response but also a shift toward proactive disaster management — focusing on preparedness, risk reduction, inter-agency coordination, and institutional capacity building. The proposed framework includes improved communication protocols, joint training exercises, and standardized response procedures to enhance public safety and operational effectiveness.
The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary Home Muhammad Iqbal Memon, Commissioner Karachi Syed Hassan Naqvi, Secretary Local Government Waseem Shamshad Ali, Secretary Rehabilitation Bilal Ahmed Memon, Secretary Health Tahir Hussain Sangi, Director General Sindh Building Control Authority Muzammil Hussain Halepoto, Director General Rescue 1122, DG PDMA, CEO SIEHS, representatives of the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC), and other senior officers of relevant departments.
Policy observers note that repeated urban emergencies have exposed structural weaknesses in inter-agency coordination, particularly in densely populated cities like Karachi. They say a centralized and legally backed command system — if supported by adequate funding and training — could significantly improve response time and accountability.
