SBCA says Gul Plaza exceeded approved floors, shop count

The Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) has released details of the approved layout and construction history of Gul Plaza, revealing multiple deviations from the sanctioned building plan.

According to the SBCA, the Gul Plaza building was originally constructed in the 1980s. In 1998, additional floors were added to the structure, while shops were built in the parking area and the rooftop was converted into a parking space, contrary to the approved design.

The authority said the additional floor was regularised in 2003, and the building owner obtained a completion certificate on April 14, 2003.

SBCA officials stated that, under the approved plan, Gul Plaza was permitted to have a basement and three floors, with authorisation to construct 1,021 shops. However, 1,200 shops were built, exceeding the approved number by 179 shops.

The SBCA further noted that shops were constructed in corridors and emergency exit areas, in violation of the sanctioned building plan.

The authority said the details were being reviewed as part of official records related to the Gul Plaza complex.