Expressing their deep grief and sorrow over the tragic loss of hundreds of precious human lives and injuries caused by this fire incident, the Multan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) on Friday demanded of the government to provide relief and monetary support to the victims of inferno at a factory in Karachi.
President of Multan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) Mian Anis A Sheikh said that about 100 workers belonged to southern Punjab who were burnt and suffocated to death in the incident besides more than dozens of people received burn injuries. He said there was utmost negligence on part of various government agencies who were responsible to implement safety measures. Concerned government departments pressurise industrialists on monthly basis to extort money in the name of implementation of rules and do not pay attention in the real implementation.
He wonders how a factory without proper and requisite safety arrangements to ensure the protection of workers lives, has been allowed to continue working, which is mockery to existing laws. He said the incident should be thoroughly and impartially investigated to ensure whether it was sabotage or was outcome of extortionists threats as appeared in a section of press or was negligence on the part of factory owners. He said this incident would give a bad name to country and would further become a propaganda tool in the hands of those who never miss a chance to defame and distort the image of Pakistan.
He said if timely action has not been taken to address the shortcomings caused this gruesome incident and those found guilty were not taken into task and if necessary reforms have not been introduced, this would put negative impact on Pakistani exports, which was already in decline due to number of reasons. He offered heartfelt condolences and expressed their deep sympathy with grieved and bereaved families and extend their full support to them in this hour of turmoil and trial.